Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, repairs and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most instances.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or double glazing windows repairs by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general renovation you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

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

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder 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 avoid further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or repairs nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the sash cord being snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the possibility of draughts.