Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazing window repairs-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and Sash Window Repair drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer a high 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 decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window repairs becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord or an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. 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 in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.