Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll sway in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and Window Doctor the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to break 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 can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash Window Doctor frames. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and may be an hazard to fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and Window Doctor can reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from the weather over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window doctor near me upvc repairs near me are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will likely need to be replaced by a different option.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.