Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. You can purchase this at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call an expert most of the time.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your upvc window repairs without having to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber 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 connecting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow 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 fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. As time passes, window repairs this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.