Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and Window Repair air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. 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 meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond door repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and Window Repair making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address 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 kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening 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 problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize 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 efficiency of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.