Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority times.

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window repair near me as well to ensure that they are in balance and Upvc Door Repairs Near Me not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window Upvc door repairs near me are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes 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 an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.

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