Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazing Finchley-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be fixed by using the right tools and persistence.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and repairmywindowsanddoors the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

Make use of 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, so you'll be able repair your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off 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 position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well to make sure they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

Triple and double glazing repair Kettering glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.