Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will lay each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by 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 window. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the upvc window repairs frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be 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 comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping 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 remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for window Doctor near me removing the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can 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 persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and replacing improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.