Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazed window repairs-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted 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. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most cases.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights should be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. 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. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

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

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.