Sash Window Repair

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

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most often.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a complete overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and Window doctor also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even 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 towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected 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 any repairs to the sash window are required.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the Window doctor becoming soft to touch. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve 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 decrease the risk of draughts.