Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and double glazing repair set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch 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 available at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can pry apart the two sashes 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, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed upvc repairs near me to the sash window.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double Glazing Repair windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord or a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

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