Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.

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

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash 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 remove any security fittings that could be present, and then removing 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 draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.