Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for sash window repair discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved 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. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window repair. in the event of this.

Another reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which is then required 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 under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

Triple and Double Glazed windows Repair double glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window will require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. 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 also reduce the risk of draughts.