Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be fixed with the right tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority times.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These can be efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally the sash needs 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 general refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove 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 position of the sash windows repair). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out 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 an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

repairing double glazed windows and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, sash window repair a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.