Sash Window Repair

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

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Fortunately, the majority of 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 place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. 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 gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, Sash Window Repair and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your glass window repair. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove 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 location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, should be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, so it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.