Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will set each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during an icy storm and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise through and your energy costs may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it 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 completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call an expert most of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten 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 by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash upvc window repairs frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly 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 method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and window repairs pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash could fall 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 a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that 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 replacement or resealing of sash window components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.