Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of 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, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of an expert most often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes 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 in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, 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. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they'll have to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible 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 take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces 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). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a upvc window repair which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It is a major concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or a sign of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce draughts.