Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle during storms, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through 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. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, 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. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help 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 off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your Upvc window repairs sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along 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 loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window upvc repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

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

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash or upvc window repairs ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

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