Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and Window Repairs even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

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

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general renovation, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when double glazing repairs near me and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.