Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window repairs Hanwell.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. You can find this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or repairs downwards.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an tool.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or repairs decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber 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 location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.

In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dust or dirt can often help resolve this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.