Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even 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 searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing 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. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most instances.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your upvc window repairs. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and window Repair possibly cause fire. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting 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 defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or window repair the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It can be very concerning when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to decrease 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 also reduce draughts.