Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for window repairs discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or Window repair pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be solved with the appropriate tools and determination.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating 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 built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in an expert most of the time.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, window repairs a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require an instrument to break them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by 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 are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.

Triple and double glazing repairs near me glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.