Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during storms and you'll lose view. A window repairs near me that is too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. This is neither optimal, but both can be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another reason for Window Repairs the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and window repairs the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

First, clean 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 position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window 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 result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.