Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in a professional most often.

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in 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 difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. 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 issues that arise with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any upvc Door repairs near Me to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any needed door repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, Upvc Door Repairs near me the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.