Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during a storm and sash window repair 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. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair timber windows damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

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

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.