Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose could let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with 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. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or Sash Window repair online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most of the time.

You can use a wood softener 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 repair windows your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair double glazing window any minor flaws in the timber. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry 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 in balance. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and Sash Window Repair cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.