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 seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Most of these problems can be resolved 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 off any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then 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 online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

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

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most often.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. 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 rot.

The majority of the issues you will face 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 can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, 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 the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash upvc window repairs repair work.

Additionally, with time, Window repair the rails at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

Double and Window repair triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the upvc window repair to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.