Sash Window Repair

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

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window repairs and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or Sash Window Repair deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows repair are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this is happening, Sash Window Repair the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the problem is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the possibility of draughts.