Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and 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 balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window repairs frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can find this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority times.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the upvc window repair where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff 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 fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of your home, so it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.