Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will bed each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch 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. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

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

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. 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 on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and sash window repair bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

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

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-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 inspect inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when double glazing window repairs and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease 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 improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.