Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs 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, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window repairs becoming soft to the touch. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.