Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs may increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your upvc window repairs near me if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or window repair swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights should be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

In time the rails at the bottom can 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 is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major Window Repair concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord or the result of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved 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. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce draughts.