Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to ensure that her window replacement is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazing repair (linked internet page)-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window doctor. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to size and push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

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 way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

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

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.