Sash Window Repair

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

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose could let in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in 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 sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. You can find this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in an expert most often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed to stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the possibility of draughts.