Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazed window repairs-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and persistence.

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

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed 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 allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window repair near me that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A common sash window Repair (Willysforsale.com) problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.