Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for window repairs wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy costs. This is neither optimal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems 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 been accumulating. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority often.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can drop off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Window Repairs Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.

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

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord or an indication of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order 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 reduce the risk of draughts.