A StepByStep Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
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 great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid further 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 next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can 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. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. window repairs could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.