Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll 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 an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to open the upvc window repairs again and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, Sash window repair the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent 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 make sure they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.