Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers 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, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority of the time.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. 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 remove it completely. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and may be risky for Sash Window Repair fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. 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 frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood to rot.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, should be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and Sash window repair they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.