Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. 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 sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better glide. You can find this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority times.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major sash window repair problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

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 high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window repair near me as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It is a major concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of 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 decrease the risk of draughts.