Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, 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, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and Window Repairs perseverance.

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

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. 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. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional most times.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent draughts by filling 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 as the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps surrounding your window repairs. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit 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 chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, window repairs with time, the bottom rails can 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 may be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.

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

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.