Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repairs near me-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or window repairs hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears 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 window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and window repairs must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide a high 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 cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible 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 position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. In time, this may result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. 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 will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.