How To Save Money On Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling 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. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window repairs particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be efficient, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as 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 bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood 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" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, should be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window repairs components.

It can be a real concern when double glazed window repairs and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.