Sash window repairs Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with 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 is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. 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 decrease draughts.