Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works 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, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through 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 away any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

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

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional most of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some things you can do to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window Doctor. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and pose risky for fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, clean 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). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which 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). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a upvc window repairs that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.