7 Things About Sash Window Repair You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be fixed with the right tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.


Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Examine 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 holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in an expert most of the time.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be 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 complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

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

The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

One common 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 an issue with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.