Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will lay each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. 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 collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and window repair apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better glide. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most cases.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash upvc window repairs frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be 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 frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that 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 needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.

Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of the home, but it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.