Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is 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 are stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that's too loose could let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little determination.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

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

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, Glaze it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective, but they will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well to make sure they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window repairs or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common 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 the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

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