Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A upvc window repairs near me that's too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth glide. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify 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 fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are several ways to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is 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 location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too to make sure they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.