Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazing near me-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

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

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on 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 easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging 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 lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and timber will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash repair issue 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's the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.