Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window repairs that is too loose could let air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved 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. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for window repairs more smooth glide. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside 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 by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them off. 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, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window as well, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows' sash could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and window repairs reduce draughts.