Sash window repair (Check Out www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk)

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with 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 off any paint that has built up. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or Window Repair swollen, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are some options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.

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 great draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer 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 balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.