Winter brings more than enough challenges to our lives. So, if we can avoid or eliminate at least some of them, we will be well ahead of the game. Draughty windows are a reasonably quick fix. It will save some money and maybe save the planet as well. You can reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing this winter.
There are some issues you need to deal with up front. The primary one is whether you want to deal with draught proofing yourself or have someone else do it for you. Lets assume at the moment that you will hire out the work. Here is what you should be concerned about when choosing a person for hire.
If the contractor plans to route or cut out the sash channel and then stuff in some felt strips, then perhaps you should look elsewhere. While any sealing will improve the situation, this method will weaken your window frame. If you treasure your windows or they are antiques then beware.
A felt brush is a good method for sealing draughts but there is more to it than just filling in the beading channel. And who would agree to something that might actually damage the window itself? Lets look at one of the other options.
To properly inspect a wood sash window, all the staff beading should be removed along with the parting bead. Now your workman can inspect the window for any damage. If there are gaps in the cross points these can be filled with timber.
A professional will look at the condition of your windows as a whole. The draughts may be a result of more than old staff beading. The bead channel may have sand or grit in the groove. This would interfere with a good seal. Cleaning the channel is an important step.
The parting bead that replaces what has been removed should be primed. Raw wood is unacceptable. Now a sealing strip can be placed in the groove. Good placement will make for a smooth surface that allows the window to move easily but give a good seal.
The windows can be rehung now and if the rope or balance weights need repair replacement or adjusting that can be done as well. Well balanced windows seat better and are easier to use.
Any gaps that can be seen with the window closed can now be filled. The staff beading can be replaced and any areas with cracks or gaps backfilled. He should go outside and check for any spaces that have been missed from inside. He may have done the work, but you have shown that you can reduce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing this winter.
Get exclusive inside info on how to recuce your carbon foot print with sash window draught proofing this winter now in our super sash window draught proofing company and sash window specialists review.