Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by placing an edging rope into 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 when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most instances.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or 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. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible door repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide 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 a knife to cut them off. 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 is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, window repairs or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.