Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and sash window repair wears away with time.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and Sash Window Repair will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Triple and double glazed window repair glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window will require replacement.

A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the possibility of draughts.