14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam will lay each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs may increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. 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. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to stop it could be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
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 require the help of a professional most times.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent 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 because the foam expands with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. Farnborough double glazing will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from the weather over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.
It is a major concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If the problem is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.