Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll sway during storms 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 costs could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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 built up. Use 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 with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. You can find this at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making 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 that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to remove 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). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will require replacement.

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

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.