Sash Window Repair

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

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

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

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using 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 be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and Repair My Windows And Doors making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly Repair My Windows And Doors that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

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

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 could be at stake and the sash upvc window repairs may have to be replaced.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be fixed by taking off 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 could be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.