Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers 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, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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 upvc window repairs. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

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

If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away 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 bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could 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, which allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

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

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and sash window repair general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.

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

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. 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 also reduce draughts.