Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window repair near me. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. You can find this at most home improvement stores, window repairs or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it more 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 require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve 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 imperfections in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from 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 location of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and window repairs determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped or a sign of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and repairmywindowsanddoors.co.Uk cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.