Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most cases.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off 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 location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop 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. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord or the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.