14 Common Misconceptions Concerning Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be corrected with the appropriate tools and persistence.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved 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. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth glide. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.
Full Document of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord or the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce draughts.