Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get old and insecure. They could leak or make noises. Sash window specialists can restore them to their original condition and apply a fresh coat of paint.

Pam likens her pursuit of replacement weights to horse trading- she eventually finds combinations that work. She also sprays the pulley axles with the light coating of lubricant to prevent future squeaks.

1. Cracked Glass

Over time, timber windows may suffer from cracked glass and shattered cords of sash. These are common issues in old sash windows, but it is usually possible to remedied without replacing the window.

Cracked window glass could be extremely hazardous especially for children and elderly individuals living on their own, so a broken pane should be repaired as soon as possible. The first step is to put the window pane on a flat work surface and mark it with a marker where you'd like to cut. Then, using a metal straightedge and glass cutters that have a small-wheel, score the cutting line into the glass. Wear safety glasses and gloves when working with the glass cutter.

After the cut is completed, carefully remove the glass and set it aside. Then, place the sash on an even surface. Make sure you are protected by wearing thick cut-proof gloves and a pair of safety glasses. Tape the glass in an form of an X using masking tape. Also tape any broken glass. This will ensure that the glass remains intact while you remove the frame.

After protecting the glass using tape, remove any cords or chains and the separating beads. Use a heat gun to soften the old hardened putty and scrape with the blade of a putty. Remove any hardware attached to the sash by carefully prying it off. Label the bag to determine where to put it.

A damaged pulley system may be the reason for upvc window repairs your sash getting stuck half-way up or down. Professional sash window restorers can replace the spring balances and pulleys to make your window more comfortable to operate. They can also add draught-proofing as well as weather-sealing to old timber windows, which will make them warmer and reducing your energy bills. If you reside in a listed building or conservation area, they may also install more energy efficient slimline double glazing in your timber frames.

2. Broken Sash

While sash windows are intended for opening up to fresh air, with time they can get stuck. This is typically because the sash cord gets damaged and the window can no open or close. It is essential to examine your window to determine the cause of the issue, if the sash has become stuck or is not able to be opened. Once the root of the issue is determined, it is possible to implement a simple solution.

Make sure the tabs of metal at the top and bottom of the sash have been inserted into the slots in the window frame. If the tabs are of a different shape, they may not fit correctly and will cause issues with the window being able to be moved up or down. Usually, only a few screws are needed to correct this.

Next it's a good idea to take the bottom sash out and place it on flat surfaces. You will see a little door on the left and right sides of the window, these are called "pockets." They were originally made to be a snug fit however, they have been pinched or screwed to the wall in the past. A sharp utility knife could be used to slice along the joint of paint and gently prise them out.

Check for nails used to secure the pockets. If there aren't nails, you can try to lift the pockets out. It is helpful to have someone hold the upvc windows repair near me window repairs - click the next post, because they can be quite heavy. If you find nails, you must use the blade of a small pry bar to break the nail heads. This can be quite tricky and at times it's better to replace them all.

After you have all the pieces put in place then the final step is to attach the sash. This is a relatively simple task. If the bottom sash still cannot be pulled out it could be necessary to rebalance the window by attaching a counterweight and retying the old cords. This will require opening the jambs to access the cast iron weights inside.

3. Wear and tear Paint

It could cause rotting, among other problems, when old paint wears away. In some cases, it can also obscure the window's original design and appearance, so it's a good idea to get it replaced before things get too far.

If rot isn't too bad, you might be able to clean the affected area, and then treat it with a wood hardener to consolidate the fibers. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can repair the damaged area and shape it to match the surrounding wood. Once the epoxy wood filler has cured then sand the surface until it is smooth, prime and then paint the window to repair door it.

Before you start working ensure that the sash is fully open and not stuck in position. After you've finished painting your lower portion, it's time to assemble the sash again and Upvc Window repairs paint the upper frame. Paint the edges of the sash, first, and then the rebate where the sash sits in the recess of the sash when it's opened and closed. If the sash doesn't sit completely vertical when you insert it back into the sash rebate you can secure it using glazier's points.

If you're ready to re-paint, make sure you're using the correct type of paint suitable for sash windows and apply a few coats with either a roller or brush. It is essential to keep an even thickness of paint to ensure that the final look will be the same across all surfaces.

Label every part when you paint your window. This will allow you to put them back in the correct place later. This is particularly useful when working on multiple windows that have sash on them simultaneously. You'll need to unscrew any security fittings and take off the staff bead, before taking the lower sash out and taking off the chains or cords on both sides. Once the sash is taken off, you'll be able to replace the pockets and parting beads seal any gaps using decorators caulk and re-tighten sash cords. Once the work is done your sash should be functioning smoothly once more.

4. Rotten Timber

On a recent job in Highgate, our sash window team came across rotten timber within the sash frame and the box. A common issue with older homes, it's essential to check whether the putty is protecting and sealing the glass and frames - gaps in the frame mean that moisture can seep in and cause rot. This is easy to overlook, particularly when the sash doesn't move as easily due to the high humidity or the build-up of grime up. With a little time, some focus on the putty and some simple maintenance on the sash, you can easily fix this before it becomes an issue.

The first step is to take away the rotten wood and replace it with fresh timber. This can be done using pry bar and hammer and chisel. Make sure the area is completely free of nails, timber or debris that may hinder the re-construction of the sash after it is back in place. The sash will be rebuilt with timber splicing in order to replace the rotten wood and epoxy resin on the remaining pieces of sound wood.

It is also essential to re-glaze the window once the sash is repaired. This is an easy process that can be carried out with the window repair near me closed or open. If the sash has been opened, it's vital to remember to lower the sash cords prior doing this, so that you avoid dropping the weights down and breaking them. Reinstalling the sash after it has been repaired is simple as simply hooking the cords to each pulley and then reconnecting the strip of separation.

Making sure you are keeping up with regular maintenance of your timber and sash window maintenance will extend the lifespan of your windows and reduce the need for extensive repairs to sash windows. Making a habit of caulking around your windows and sash doors and repainting regularly will help prevent moisture ingress and damp. In addition to this, keeping a regular watch on your wooden trim and examining for areas that are decayed will help keep your home in good shape and avoid expensive repairs to your sash windows.