Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazed window repairs-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

First, take off 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). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

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

It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash repair problem 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 latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. 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 put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. 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 the possibility of draughts.