Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will bed each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little determination.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and Upvc window repair a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call an expert most of the time.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of 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 need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window repairs. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your upvc window repair draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off 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 take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. In time, this may lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. 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 assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be placed 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 sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.