Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.

Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and sash window repair will have to be applied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

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

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, 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 from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or Sash window repair on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window repairs becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of 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 the possibility of draughts.