Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it 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. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general renovation you can have your sash upvc window repair professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff 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, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights must be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of sash window components.

It can be very concerning when Double glazed window repairs near me and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

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 might be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.