Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazing-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

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

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that 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. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window doctor or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

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

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.