Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and determination.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. 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 paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. This isn't easy 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 warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and will have to be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help 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 that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to 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). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash upvc window repairs near me repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce draughts.