Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when double glazing repairs Bow-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified by using the right tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and double glazing repairs Greenwich you'll be able to fix your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every 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 may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing repairs Greenwich glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.