Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window repairs will have to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.