20 Fun Informational Facts About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway in the event of storms and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. You can find this at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most instances.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and then 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 option is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of sash window components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. window repairs Burnham could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be the result of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.