Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

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

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash 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 bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash upvc window repair near me frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, Download free but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film 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 sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed 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 window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of 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's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and install recommend any required repairs to the sash window.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve 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 enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.