Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during storms, and repair double Glazing window you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. 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. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can allow cold air to seep 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 using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

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 way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, repair double glazing window and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. 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.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair Double Glazing Window rotten timber but the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

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

It can be very concerning when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.