14 Common Misconceptions About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise through, and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible cause of an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most cases.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After using it, you'll 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 with the tool.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are 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 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 can slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash [1] window repair s are necessary.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.
It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to open and then the ratchets must be reset.
This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.