Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your Double Glazing Repairs barnet-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

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

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

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

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, window repairs Macclesfield it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general renovation, you can have your window Repairs macclesfield draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff 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 can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. It could 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 "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.