Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

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

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash upvc window repair frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is 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 great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs 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 renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash windows repair window frames are not beyond repair 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 a long time. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from 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). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require an instrument to break them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling 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 even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, lock or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and lock then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.