Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of double glazing repair Hemel Hempstead compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazing repairs Basildon-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority often.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After using it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get in around 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 found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose risky for fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or Double Glazing Gillingham glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. 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 decrease the risk of draughts.