14 Misconceptions Common To Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam will set each pane by putting 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 windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well, fitting to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and fitting are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if upvc repairs near me to the window sash are needed.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of sash window components.
Triple and double glazing glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.
