Sash Window Repair

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

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double glazed window repairs-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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 off any paint that has built up. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then 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. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

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 will require the help of a professional most of the time.

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

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights should be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

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 to touch. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

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