Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a storm. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, must be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced, a 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 turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.

It is a major concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord or a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.