Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will lay each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. 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 and tapping it lightly with an tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or sash window repair be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - costly repair timber windows that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and sash window repair cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.