Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be rectified with the proper tools and persistence.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, window doctor and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most instances.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep into the window replacement near me, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a complete overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and Window doctor increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not 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 crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window doctor or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.