Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will bed each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be rectified with the right tools and persistence.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the upvc window repair.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is 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 applied 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 duration of your window's life, but it can provide 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 placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash must 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 complete renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, window repair 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 addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. 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 many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could 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" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. 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 the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of 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 assist in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of 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.