Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will bed each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll have to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with time.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and Upvc Window Repairs rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, must be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the Upvc Window Repairs the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead 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 reduce draughts.