Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching 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.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional most times.

Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the upvc window repairs where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the upvc window repairs near me and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, and it could be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash upvc window repairs may require replacement.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease draughts.