Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for lock discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or lock pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in, and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. 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.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. You can find this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have lost its grip. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights should be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of window sash components.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed window repairs near me glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or lock dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.