Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise through, and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be corrected with the right tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to take it off completely. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive 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 staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

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

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common sash window repairs repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.