Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce 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 in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. This is neither optimal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and determination.

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

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and Sash Window Repair you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

double glazed window repair and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.