Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for Double glazing repairs Bromley discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little determination.

Paint can build up 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 off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your sash window repair Wythenshawe without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or Double Glazing repairs bromley the window becoming soft to touch. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

double glazing repairs Bromley and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.