Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during a storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be corrected with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. 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.

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

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

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional most times.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window repair near me frames. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

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

As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.