Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for sash window Repair replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, sash window repair which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from 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 employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the local window repair.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into the gaps surrounding your window repairs. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of 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 purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have 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 restored to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

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

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead 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 improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease draughts.