The Advanced Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake during a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. Read This method is costly and you will need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all 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 have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that 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 rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer 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 properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.
One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped or an indication of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of 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 efficiency of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.