Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in and your energy costs could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the upvc window repairs near me frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch 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. It is available in many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like 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 is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and may be risky for fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a general renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash upvc window repair repairs are necessary.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped or the result of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and installation the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.