The end of a harsh winter and the spring period before the summer season starts is the ideal time for checking, repairing, and running some maintenance tasks on your home. Your sash windows have had to work hard all winter to keep you warm, particularly if they are getting on in years so they could use a little tlc to keep them in good condition to do the same for you next winter. This month is the best time to get your windows looked after, so we have put a few tips together to help you do that.
Maintenance frequency
For newer sash windows which are engineered and carefully designed you are likely to only have to undertake larger maintenance tasks every five to eight years. For older windows, this may need to take place more frequently. Either way, running through the checklist below will help you to identify where you are in the maintenance cycle and pick up on any early signs of wear and tear that need to be addressed.
Sash window annual maintenance checklist
We recommend doing the following each year around about this time, when the weather is warmer but not yet hot.
- Visual check. Check your window box and frame inside and out carefully. You are looking for any cracks, gaps, or holes that have appeared over the winter. Look out for any chipped, cracked, or peeling paintwork that will need to be stripped back. Pay particular attention to the bottom timber rail, looking for any evidence of degradation or decay. If you spot any issues you should address them now before they escalate into bigger problems. On the inside check for any gaps in the seal, broken cords, latches, or handles. All can be easily fixed if identified early.
- Dealing with minor issues. If you spot any of the above you can typically fix them yourself if the damage is not extensive. After carefully cleaning your widow with a damp sponge and mild detergent, use filler to deal with any gaps, holes, or cracks and re-paint allowing plenty of time for the paint to dry naturally. Apply oil or wax to the frame, hinges, and interior pulleys to keep them working smoothly. If they are sticking, check for any paint or grit that may be trapped and clear it out carefully before applying your wax or oil.
- Replace any damaged glass or broken cords. Cords in particular should be replaced as quickly as possible to avoid any further damage to the sliding mechanism which could be more complicated and expensive to fix.
- Deal with timber decay. In our humid and wet climate it is natural that over time wood may begin to show signs of decay. If you do spot any signs, then clear it out and reseal the affected areas, typically around the joints. If the damage is more extensive then you are probably better off replacing the timber.
For professional advice or to schedule sash window maintenance and repair, just get in touch with our team at Wandsworth Sash Windows. We are just a phone call away on 02079247303.
