20 Fun Infographics About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway during a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the upvc window repairs frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, window repairs wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.