This Is The Ultimate Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazed window repairs-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

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

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart 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 cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and timber staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

Most of the problems you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could 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 a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window repairs will need to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.