Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

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

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority times.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your upvc window repairs. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. In addition the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has 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 may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor http://xilubbs.xclub.tw timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with a different option.

A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.