Sash Window Repair

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

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through 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. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window repairs near me. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and repairmywindowsanddoors cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, repairmywindowsanddoors can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality 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 examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease draughts.