Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. 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 with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major Repair My Windows And Doors problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes 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. These are efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond Repair My Windows And Doors. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may 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 needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and Repair My Windows And Doors the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the sash cord being snapped or the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. 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 be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.