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 scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and sash window repair noise through, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. 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. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution 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 could hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, sash window repair the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from 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). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed 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 touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord or an indication of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.