Why We Why We Sash Window Repair (And You Should Also!)

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the upvc window repair's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. 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 using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be 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 bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally 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 essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or double glazed window repairs a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

It can be very concerning when triple and Double glazed window Repairs windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove 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 in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.