14 Common Misconceptions About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from 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 use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional most often.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are a few things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is 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 position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. upvc windows repair marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that could be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease 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.