Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority times.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, repairmywindowsanddoors making it more difficult to warm your home. There are a few ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting 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 in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and repairmywindowsanddoors rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with 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 could indicate this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Triple and double glazing Greenwich glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.