Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, sash window repair or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A upvc window repairs that is too loose can let air and Sash Window Repair noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved 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. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of 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 defects. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the upvc window repairs sash are needed.

Over 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 to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will have to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.