Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, window repair that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be rectified with the right tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and 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 put sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most instances.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or Window Repair strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger 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 on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window repairs. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose an hazard to fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very 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 properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, clean 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 take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the upvc window repair or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is 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 by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord or the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. 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 risk of draughts.