Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers to help balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

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

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority times.

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. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

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

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets have been 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 primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation is 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. Sills that have water marks or a window repair near me which is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major double cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window will require replacement.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce draughts.