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 open 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 puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when Double Glazing Repairs Maldon-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected with the right tools and double glazing repairs Maldon perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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 off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most of the time.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will have to be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window as well, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes 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. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

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

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing repair Chatham windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.