Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is 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 sway during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the right tools and a little determination.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint may build up in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most instances.

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and upvc Window repairs pushed into all the gaps around your Upvc window repairs. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting 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 include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the upvc window repair as well to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.