Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call an expert most often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen 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 to repair your window without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled 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 break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It can be a real concern when double glazed window repairs and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the upvc window repairs near me to open and then the ratchets must be reset.

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