Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and Sash window repair the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving 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 in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the local window repair where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

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

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing window repairs glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.