Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to 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 reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

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

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in an expert most often.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair timber windows your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and sash window repair the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

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

The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from the weather over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

Over 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 the touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of window sash components.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be applied 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 improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.