Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during a storm, and you'll lose your view. A upvc window repair that is too loose could let air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. This is neither optimal, 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 they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most often.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or replacement swollen it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be applied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash upvc window repair frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder 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 mechanism for balancing can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also 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 also be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.