Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double glazing repairs-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored 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 stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of sash window components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off 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 decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease draughts.