Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and window repairs persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through 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. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact 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 use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. 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. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.

One common sash upvc window repairs near me repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or 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 remove any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. 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 possibility of draughts.