Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

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

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the upvc window repairs near me.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most often.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.