Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake during an icy storm and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues repairs to double glazing stop the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most instances.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair doors any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access repairs to upvc doors the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame repairs to double glazing break or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window may require replacement.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. 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 draughts.