Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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 built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside 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 available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, sash window Repair although they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may 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 addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows repair and can help reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, should be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.

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 in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.