Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, window Repair the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

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

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for window repair example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord or the result of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.