Sash Window Repair

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

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazed window repairs-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and repair my windows and Doors noise in, and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery 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 used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond Repair My Windows And Doors even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After 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 must be applied to prevent further decay.

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

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

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

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve 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 enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.