Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and 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 washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazed window repairs near me-hung window repairs becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from 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. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes 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, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may 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" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights will need to be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed, 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 due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.