Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and window repairs noise in and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off 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 during winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It is much 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 windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and 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 on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out 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 protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.