Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repair Dulwich-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, double Glazing ramsgate which can cause them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's 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.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of cases.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or 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. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

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

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double glazing Ramsgate and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.