Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified with the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and window repair staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side, which permit 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'll likely require a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and window repair triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

One common window repairs repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.