Sash window repair [official source]

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified with the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair timber windows damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for Window Repair meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have 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 partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or repairing double glazed windows glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dust or dirt can often help resolve this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease draughts.