Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected with the appropriate tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. You can find this at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

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

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity 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 can be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. 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 with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.