Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, sash window repair causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available 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 stop it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. 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 alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair timber windows even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It may 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 placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.

In the same way, sash window repair over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of sash window components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.