Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. It is available at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop it could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your local window repair sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten 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 a few things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation you can have your window 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 and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or Sash Window Repair damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, Sash Window Repair but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance 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 improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.