Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Luckily, window repair Barnet most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in 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. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your Window Repair Barnet If this is the case.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.

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

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can allow cold air to seep 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. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. 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 at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window too, window repair Barnet to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

double glazing repair St Neots and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.