Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazed window repairs-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling 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 away any accumulated paint. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on 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 during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with time.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps surrounding your upvc window repairs. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (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 should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and window repairs apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.