Sash Window Repair

As sash repairing upvc windows age, they can become unreliable and begin to leak or make noises. Sash window specialists can bring them to their original condition and apply a fresh coat of paint.

Pam compares her search for replacement weights to horse trading. She eventually finds combinations that are effective. She sprays a thin layer of oil on the pulleys to stop future noises.

1. Glass that has cracked

Timber windows may develop cracks in the glass as well as broken sash cables over time. These are typical problems for old sash window, but they can be addressed without having to replace the entire window.

Cracked window glass can be extremely dangerous, especially for children or elderly people living on their own, so a broken pane should be repaired as soon as is possible. The first step is to place the window pane on a flat surface and mark it with a marker where you want to cut. Then, using a metal straightedge and a glass cutter equipped with small-sized wheels, mark the cutting line on the glass. Be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves when working with the glass cutter.

After the cut is completed after which you can carefully remove the glass and set it aside. Then, place the sash on an even surface. Wear thick gloves, cut-resistant gloves, and safety glasses to protect yourself. Tape the glass in a X shape with painter's masking tape. Also, tape any broken glass. This will ensure that the glass remains intact as you remove the frame.

After securing the glass with tape, take off any chains or cords and the separating beads. Soften the old, hardened glue with the help of a heat gun, then scrape it off using a putty knife. Carefully pry off the sash and take off any hardware that has been connected to it. Place it in a clearly labeled bag to ensure you know which opening to place it back into.

If your sash is stuck half way up or down, it could be due to a damaged pulley system. A professional sash window restorer will replace the pulleys and spring balances, making your window smooth to operate again. They can also provide weather-sealing and draught proofing to your old wooden windows, making them warmer and reducing your energy bill. If you live in a listed home or conservation zone, they can install more energy efficient slimline double glazing window repair glazing in your timber frames.

2. Broken Sash

Sash windows are designed to open up for fresh air. However, they can become stuck with time. This is typically because a sash cord breaks and the window cannot open or close. It is essential to examine your window to determine the source of the problem if the sash has become stuck or is not able to be opened. Once the root of the issue is identified, it is possible to implement an easy solution.

The first thing to verify is to ensure that the tabs made of metal on each side of the sash are inserted into the slots in the window frame. If the tabs have a different shape, they may not fit correctly and will cause problems with the window being able to be moved up or down. In most cases, a few simple screws are needed to correct this.

Next it's a good idea to take the bottom sash out and set it on flat surfaces. You will see a little door on the left and right sides of the window, these are called "pockets." These were designed to be snug fitting however, many have been pinned or screwed to the wall over time. A sharp utility knife could be used to slice along the joint of paint and gently prise them out.

After removing the pockets, it's recommended to look for nails that may have been used to hold them in the first place. If there's no nails, you can try to pull them free - it helps to have someone help hold the window in place as they can be quite heavy. If there are nails you will require the blade on a small bar to break the nail heads - this can be quite difficult and at times it's better to simply replace them altogether.

The last job is to put the new sash into the opening, this should be fairly easy after everything is in place. If the sash on the bottom cannot be pulled out, it may be necessary to rebalance the window attaching a counterweight, and then retying the old cords. To accomplish this, you'll have to remove the jambs to access the cast-iron weights.

3. Paint that is worn Paint

It could cause rotting, in addition to other issues, as old paint wears away. It can also hide the original design of the window.

If the rot isn't too bad, it may be possible to sand down the affected area before treating it with a wood-hardener to consolidate fibers. After the epoxy filler has dried, you can windown repair double glazed window (a cool way to improve) the damaged area and shape it to match the surrounding wood. Once the filler has cured then sand it to a smooth finish, prime and then paint to restore the window.

Before you begin work, make sure the sash is completely open and isn't stuck in position. After you've painted the lower section of the sash, it's time to reassemble and paint the upper frame. When reassembling the sash paint the edges first, then proceed to the rebate, which is the place where the sash will be in the sash rabbet once it's shut and opened. If the sash isn't completely vertical when you place it back into the rebate of the sash, you can secure it by using glazier's tips.

When you're ready to re-paint ensure that you're using the correct type of paint for sash windows and apply a few coats with either a roller or brush. It's important to keep the same thickness of paint so that the finished will be consistent across every surface.

If you're painting a window, be sure to label the entire area so you can put them back in their proper locations later on. This is especially useful when you're working on several sash windows simultaneously. Remove the staff bead and unscrew all security fittings before taking the lower sash off. You can replace the pockets and the parting bead, seal the gaps with decorators' caulk, and tighten the sash cords after removing the sash. Once the work is done, your sash should be working smoothly once more.

4. Rotten Timber

Our sash windows team discovered decayed wood in the frame box and frame during the recent Highgate project. It's a common problem with older homes. Check that the putty is still sealing and protects the glass and frames. A gap in the frame can allow moisture to enter and cause decay. This can be difficult to spot, especially when the sash doesn't move as easily due to high humidity or grime build up. But with a bit of time and a little focus on the timber putty, along with some simple sash window maintenance, this could be fixed before it becomes a problem.

The first step is to take away the rotten timber and replacing it with fresh wood. This can be done using the pry bar and hammer, and windown Repair chisel. Make sure that the area is clear of any nails, additional timber or Windown Repair debris that may hinder the re-construction of the sash after it is back in place. The sash is rebuilt by splicing timber into the areas where the original decayed timber is present and epoxy resin is then used on the remaining pieces of wood to form an enduring repair.

Once the sash is rebuilt, it's important to re-glaze your window. This is a simple process that can be done with the window either closed or open. It is essential to lower the sash cords in case the sash has been opened. This will prevent the weights from falling and breaking. Reinstalling the sash once it has been repaired is simple as simply hooking the cords onto each pulley, then attaching the strip that separates.

Regular timber maintenance and sash window maintenance will aid in prolonging the lifespan of your sash windows, and will reduce the need for major repairs to upvc windows to the sash. Painting and caulking your windows, doors and trim will help to prevent water and damp ingress. Additionally, checking your trims made of wood for signs of decay and keeping an eye on it on a regular basis will help keep your home in good condition and prevent costly repairs to double glazed windows to sash windows.