Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition, Window repair the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. 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 offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might 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 permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can fall off its track and window repair could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.