10 Things Everybody Hates About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating 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 accumulated. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it still jams, 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 if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom 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 in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. website can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation you can have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, but it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.