Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazing-hung windows get stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of 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 plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. It is available in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get into the Window Doctor, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the upvc window repairs and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

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

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord or a sign of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of 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 reduce the risk of draughts.