Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window repair Reigate gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise through and your energy costs could increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be addressed with the right tools and a little determination.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the Window Repair Margate. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. You can find this at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is an effective draught blocker, window repair Margate but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, must be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or Window Repair Margate a problem with sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.