Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both could be solved with the proper tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in the majority of cases.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. 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 and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll 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 and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair timber windows, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they are fixed or Sash window Repair painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease draughts.