Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window doctor near me that is too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

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

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window replacement (sell) stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

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

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window as well, to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.