Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll sway during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or Sash Window repair hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining 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 windows, and can reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once 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 weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

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

It can be very concerning when double glazing window repairs and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.