Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle in the event of an icy 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 costs could increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

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

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Most often, window repairs maidstone they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window repair Walton-on-Thames and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and window repairs Maidstone can reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly 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 required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required repairs to the sash window Repairs Maidstone.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when double glazing Ilford and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.