Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers, 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, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll sway in the event of storms and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

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

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and window repairs pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the upvc window repairs near me open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and 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 paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and window repairs also reduce draughts.