Notes

14 Questions You're Uneasy To Ask Sash Window Repair
repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk may become out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy costs may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to 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 lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.


Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, remove 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). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.

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

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize 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 decrease the risk of draughts.

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/canterbury-windowrepair/