Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material 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 are stuck. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise through and your energy costs may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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 away any accumulated paint. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and Window Repairs chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film 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. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied 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 can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and window repairs apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the upvc window repairs near me or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will likely need to be replaced by a different option.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.

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