Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional most times.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window replacement where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decaying 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 drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement 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.

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

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required upvc repair repairs (packtory.co.kr) to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove 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 possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the possibility of draughts.