Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and repair double glazing window 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 puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazed windows repairs-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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 off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of 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, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - an expensive repair double glazing Window that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.