Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks 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, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. This lubricant is available 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 is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. 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 towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window repairs may require replacement.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.