Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will lay each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope 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 rattle during a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window repairs's cord.

Another reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority often.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They should not 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 be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.