Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

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

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call an expert most times.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and window repairs swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, window repairs which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom 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 affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window repairs near me and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window repair near me the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash can fall off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

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

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.