Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and window repair painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat 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 can drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window repairs that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazing repairs near me glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets must be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove 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 the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.