Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, window repairs and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the upvc window repair frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

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

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used 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 the tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of sash upvc window repair components.

It is a major concern when double and Window Repairs triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord or a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.