Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs can increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin Near By removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and Double Glazed Window Repairs you'll need to call an expert in the majority of cases.

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

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter 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 that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, 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 the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights could 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

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, Double Glazed Window Repairs or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the upvc window repair near me open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce draughts.