Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs can increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

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

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some things you can do to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, repairer they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at stake and repairer the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to decrease 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 sash's operation and decrease draughts.