Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed with the right tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth glide. You can find this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to door repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or Window repairs degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.

It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

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