Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, 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 prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to fix, sash window repair and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of 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 the risk of draughts.