Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacement replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. You can find this at the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to stop it could be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the upvc window repair in the event of this.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy 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 reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.