Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repair glazing (click here for info)-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.

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

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. 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 a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional most often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window replacement. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

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

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

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

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash repair problem is when 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 issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the possibility of draughts.