Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be fixed by using the right tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. It is available in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of an expert most often.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several ways to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window doctor near me and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and repairmywindowsanddoors staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and RepairMyWindowsAndDoors then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window replacement that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.