Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy 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 balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window repair near me gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved 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 been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then push 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 is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window repairs, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and window repair cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could 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 improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.