Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in which can increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels 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 that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and Installation improve its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window repair near frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.