Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her upvc window repairs is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during an icy storm and you'll lose view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in, and your energy bills could increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

Another possible 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 an expert in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be applied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash string, window repairs staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of concern when they start to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.