Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal but they can be rectified by using the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the upvc window repair stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window repairs near me where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This 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 draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. In addition, 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.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. 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. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened and then the ratchets must be reset.

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