Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Use 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 with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of 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 due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional most times.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with time.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window repair near frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps that surround your repairing window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

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

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and Sash Window Repair triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, and it could be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash rattles. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. 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 using a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.