Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazed window repair-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and determination.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry off 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 windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and pose risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and sash window repair improve its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It may 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 that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

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 be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce draughts.