Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of storms and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or Window Repairs on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window repairs (click here to read)'s cord.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most often.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. 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 seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied over the course 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 an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames 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. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to door repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.