Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and sash window repair push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and Sash Window Repair is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows repair draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash repairing upvc windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce draughts.