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 searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to help balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs can increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. 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 window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or sash window repair warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

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

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights should be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows repair' sash could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and sash window repair chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce draughts.