Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in most instances.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair timber windows damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and Sash Window Repair dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

First, clean 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 location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good 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 recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.