Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window repairs near me stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional most times.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to door repair (click here to visit Kirkland Rosenberg Technetbloggers for free) your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to seep into 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 windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and Door Repair will have to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, clean 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 position of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be 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 also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case, door repair then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.