Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double glazing repair-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by 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 off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. 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. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and Window Doctor sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be fixed by nailing them in place and window Doctor then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them loose. 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. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled 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 weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window doctor are required.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.

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

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.