Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window Repair Walton-on-Thames.

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

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window repair Ilford gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and window repair Walton-on-Thames oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any accumulated paint. 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 with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a tool.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window repair Maidstone draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

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

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

It can be a real concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using 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 could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.