Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and installed then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most of the time.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor window repairs timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It may 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 low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

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 it could be an indication of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.