Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repairs near me-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. You can find this in many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible 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 remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect 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 aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets 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 it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. 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 risk of draughts.