Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a storm. A upvc window repairs that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved 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 been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. It is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority often.

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

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, 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 get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and pose risky for fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can 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 prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can assist in resolving this problem. 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. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.