Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazing repairs-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to block. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and glaze the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied 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 the installation of new sash strings, glaze staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, Glaze which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.