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Sash Window Repair Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window. Pam will bed each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss. Sticking Sashes If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance. A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide over, 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 one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips. You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it. If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case. A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority often. If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer. Draughts Draughts can be a concern with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use. Whitstable double glazing is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window. Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash. An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the 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 is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency. Decay The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot. The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry. First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the “pocket covers” that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to guard against 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 misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to 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 stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction. Poor Security As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required repair work to the sash window. In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement. It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced. A typical problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset. The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.