Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses 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 beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and sash window repair expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. A window that's too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After 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 using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple 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 placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, sash window repair but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus eats away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the local window repair becoming soft. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's 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 problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing 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 a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.