Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed with the right tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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 sure you employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in most instances.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll 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 the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve 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 timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the glazing repairs near me window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of window sash components.

It is a major concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.