Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. 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 with the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, sash window repair wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, should be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them out of the way. 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 is dry it is recommended that a primer coat 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 balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted 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 required sash window repair work.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or Sash window repair a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

Triple and double glazed window repair glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off 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 can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce 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 also reduce the risk of draughts.