Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be fixed with the right tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch 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 in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority times.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for glazed many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights must be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

One common window door repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be solved 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. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.