Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for upvc door repairs near me discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to balance her window repair near me.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

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

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority times.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash 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 lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be 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 on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have 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 parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

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 it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by removing 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. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.