10 Top Mobile Apps For Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will lay each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified with the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call an expert most times.
Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In window repairs , the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of issues with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, take off any paint from 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). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.