15 Reasons You Shouldn t Ignore Sash Window Repair

Sash upvc window repair Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call an expert most of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to strip 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). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or lock a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash rattles. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.