If You ve Just Purchased Sash Window Repair ... Now What

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window repairs that's too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights 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 drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting 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 include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and window Repair recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when double glazed window repairs and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.