Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, glazing wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazing repairs near me-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by 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 place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify 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 case.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional most of the time.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be applied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

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

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may have to be replaced.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.