Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a storm. A window that's too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

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'll need to call in a professional the majority times.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair timber windows your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. 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 sash window Repair in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the wood is kept 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 position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, should be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are in balance and not swaying one side more 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 with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the 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.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead in order to reduce 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 enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.