Is Technology Making Sash Window Repair Better Or Worse? Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, window repairs related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating 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 off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.


If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger 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 at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be 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 the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance 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 improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.