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 discarded, window repairs metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. A window repair near me that's too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the right tools and perseverance.

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

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or 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 at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

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

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along 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 cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. 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 paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.