Sash Window Repair

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

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazing repairs-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional most times.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size 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 is a bit costly and window repairs will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to open the window repair near me again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a complete refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window to open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.