Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even 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, such as washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will lay each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This can be tricky to fix, double glazed window repairs and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when triple or Double Glazed Window Repairs glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.