Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your repairing double glazed windows-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window sash repairs where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult repairs to double glazing warm your home. There are several ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

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

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood 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" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. You may need 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 slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash window repair - a cool way to improve - problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.