Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazing repairs near me-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and window repairs noise through and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. The majority of these issues 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. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash must 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 windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and window repairs meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. 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, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on 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 any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window repairs open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.