Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located 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 shake during a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth glide. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

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

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your upvc window repairs without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed 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 lower 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 them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash rattles. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

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