10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Regarding Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will set each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be solved with the right tools and a little determination.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
window repairs near me that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the course of 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 wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed 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 and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
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 generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, should be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them off. 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 is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it will likely need 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 an sash cord that has snapped or the result of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. 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 to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.