Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

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 helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's a 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 will let external noise and air in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be rectified with the right tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. You can find this at most 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 an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional most of the time.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window repairs Hitchin, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor installed imperfections in the wood. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window repair Redhill or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of sash window 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 sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.