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 in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during storms, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and determination.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and sash window repair oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call an expert most of the time.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes 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 during winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window repair near, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

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

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 typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.