This Is The Ultimate Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose could let in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through 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 sure you employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible cause of an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional most times.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It 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 remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good 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 inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If visit the next page is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of 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 reduce draughts.