Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets 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-based lubricant for better gliding. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using 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 cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

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

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. In addition the sash will have to be removed to open the upvc window repair again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and window can significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of sash window components.

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

One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.