Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and upvc Repairs near me the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and upvc repairs near me apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. It is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then 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 top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and Upvc Repairs near me rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary sash upvc window repairs repair work.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of window sash components.

It is a major concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.