Sash Window Repair

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

Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. You can find this at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to Repair My Windows And Doors your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can take 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 problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or Repair My Windows And Doors with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor Repair My Windows And Doors timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood 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 position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

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 may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed window repairs windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash rattles. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.