A Step-By-Step Instruction For Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repairs-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority times.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can 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 more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from 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" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be placed around 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 sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.