Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak in a storm. A window that's too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in 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 dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. It is available in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. 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 more difficult to heat your home. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with time.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen 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 may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the glass window repair becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or window repairs problems with sash ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could 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 applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.