Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.

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

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most cases.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the duration of your upvc window repairs's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a 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.

As part of a general renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, Window Repairs or pulling one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes, 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 will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and window repairs triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.