Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and window repairs the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window too, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window may require replacement.

A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or an indication of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce draughts.