Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your 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 through and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be rectified with the proper tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop it could be defective. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to reapply it over the life of your upvc window repairs. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, Window Repairs take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.