10 Myths Your Boss Is Spreading Concerning Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. window repair near me that's too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most often.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the desired size and then 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 quite costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. In my latest blog post , wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the problem is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to 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 the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.