Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. 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 searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority often.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, uPVC window repairs filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window replacement frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution 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 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 stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

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 the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and Window Replacement near me general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

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