Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your Double glazing repairs Gravesend-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from 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 sure you use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in most cases.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, double glazing repairs Gravesend filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to size and push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and double glazing repairs Gravesend correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window repair Orpington or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

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

It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.