Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double Glazing repair Rayleigh-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified with the right tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. It is available at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are several ways to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

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 good draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window repair Eltham professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off 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 position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-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 examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window repairs Reigate becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.