Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise in, and repairer your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start 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. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during 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 in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's 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 but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the window 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 general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and go!! rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will help 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, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant 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 the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.

double glazed window repairs and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window will require replacement.