Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

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

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. 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 continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter 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 repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to more info ensure they are balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

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

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.