Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through 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. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. You can find this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional most times.

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, sash window repair will need to be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, Sash Window Repair and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are 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 balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the local window repair or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.