Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

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

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with time.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they are not 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 could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Window Repairs Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, window repairs which requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window repair near me which is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. 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.