Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or lock break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll sway during an icy 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 can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

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

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or lock unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window repairs sash are needed.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

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

A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. 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 the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.