Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

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

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most instances.

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. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get 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 by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, but they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the window doctor frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps that surround your window doctor near me. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window upvc repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then 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 carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the possibility of draughts.