Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in an expert most times.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few 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 buy at most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your upvc window repair near me draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step 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). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when double and triple 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 is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.