Notes

What's Holding Back The Sash Window Repair Industry?
Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.

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

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in a professional most of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. 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 a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.


Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. window repairs may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted to 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 are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dust or dirt can often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.

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