Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. A window repairs near me that is too loose may allow air and window repairs noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified with the proper tools and persistence.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. It is available in many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority of the time.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window repairs near me, making it 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. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will require replacement.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the possibility of draughts.