Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks 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, which is located around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazing repairs near me-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and window repairs then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block it could be faulty. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional most often.

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure 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 meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can cause decay of timber, window repairs and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning 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.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

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

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce draughts.