Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will lay each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow air and noise in which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to employ 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 with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be defective. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. upvc window repair 's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. 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 regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.


One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter, 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 removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this problem. 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 decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.