Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. The majority of these issues 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 repairs near me. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of an expert most times.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major window repairs 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 can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your 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 will need to be applied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.

Most of the problems you will face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window repairs frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.