Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers to help balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repairs-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little determination.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating 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 paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most often.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window 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 let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may 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). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window as well to make sure they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and window repair reduce the risk of draughts.