Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go 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 searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be corrected with the appropriate tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, window repairs clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

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

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of an expert most times.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows 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 using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, window repairs fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of door repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might have to be removed 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 sides that permit access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dust or dirt can often help resolve this issue. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.