Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. 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. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that 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 that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, must be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window repairs the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

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

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.