Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

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

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can purchase this at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

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

A pin that holds the rail in place might have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around 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 using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window repair near me frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

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

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window repairs near me to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce 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 decrease draughts.