Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and Window repair crack. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed by using the right tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window repairs, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has 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 installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window repairs 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 very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be seen 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 necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.