Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window repair near me becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for window repairs the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use an instrument to break them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may 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 by new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

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