Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung upvc window repair gets stuck and window repairs shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

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

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. You can find this at many home improvement stores or on the internet. 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 caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most instances.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and window repairs may be an hazard to 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 complete overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance 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 efficiency of the sash and reduce draughts.