Now That You've Purchased Sash Window Repair ... Now What?

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double glazing Stockport glazing repair Kentish Town; My Page,-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and determination.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. 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 sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window repairs Herne Bay frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might 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 pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and double glazing repair Kentish Town recommend any needed sash window repair work.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.