Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass window repair, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Luckily, replace 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 internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be defective. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could 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 fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After 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 within the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.