Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority times.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond upvc repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

double glazing and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the sash cord being snapped or an indication of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.