Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy costs can increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to block. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece 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, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and window repairs rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed window repairs glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window repairs near me will require replacement.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.