Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to 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 upvc window repair. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece 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. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and Sash Window Repair parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.