Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of a storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose could let air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed with the proper tools and window repairs persistence.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. It is available in most 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. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window repairs if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decaying 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 prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very effective, but they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. 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 bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

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 an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.