Sash Window Repair

Sash windows repairs can go out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate 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 accumulated paint. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to upvc doors repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows, doors repairs near me especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows repair, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair timber windows. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident 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 determine the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.