Notes

Why We Why We Sash Window Repair (And You Should Too!)
Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. 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. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.


You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. You can find this in many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. upvc window repairs near me can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash must 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 sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve 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 draughts.

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