Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung upvc window repair near me becomes stuck in the middle, it’s an absolute nightmare. They’ll rattle in the event of a storm and you’ll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from 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. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to block it could be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You’ll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you’ll have to consult a professional in most cases.
If a pin hasn’t fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it’s recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won’t have to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you’ve used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash upvc window repairs near me particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, but they’ll need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows’ lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your upvc window repair. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a general renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home’s thermal performance.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The “pocket covers” are tiny pieces of wood on the frame’s side that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren’t balanced, the sash can slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced – costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of sash window components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash’s the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash’s sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.