What Freud Can Teach Us About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved 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 been accumulating. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the upvc window repairs near me.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in a professional most of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you should 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 an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get in around the upvc window repairs near me, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to strip 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 position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or a problem with sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.