Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass window repair and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and sash Window repair your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. 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.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most times.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose an hazard to fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.