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Window problem guide:
what's wrong, and how to fix it.

In 25 years Matt has seen everything from windows that need a quick adjustment to ones in serious disrepair. Find your window type below, spot what is going wrong, and see how it gets fixed.

DOUBLE HUNG SASH WINDOWS

 

Sash window problems

 

The classic window of Sydney homes. Almost every sash problem can be repaired rather than replaced.

01

 

Painted shut

 

Years of repainting seal the sashes to the frame. Matt frees each sash and services it to run smoothly.

02

 

Snapped sash cords

 

Worn cords fray and snap, so the sash drops or jams. Matt fits new cords to every sash and rebalances the weights.

03

 

Won't stay open

 

Usually this is because the sash is heavier than the weights holding it up. Heavier glass adds weight, rebalancing (re-weighting the window)fixes this.

04

 

Rotten timber

 

Moisture is common in sills and bottom rails. Matt rebuilds the damaged timber with Evermend epoxy, so the window stays.

05

 

Rattling in the wind

 

Loose sashes and worn beads let windows rattle. High performance beading with draught seals cushions the sashes and holds them firm and quiet.

06

 

Draughts and noise

 

Gaps and worn seals let in cold air, dust and noise. Draught proofing seals them, and new acoustic glass can go further.

Sash problem? See draught proofing, sash cords and spiral balances below, or call Matt on 0409 448 107.

CASEMENT WINDOWS

 

Casement window problems

 

Side hinged windows that open outward, common in many Sydney homes.

01

 

Painted shut

 

Repainting bonds the sash to the frame. Matt frees the sash and get the window opening again

02

 

Broken or rusted hinges

 

Corroded hardware can be replaced.  Ask about stainless steel options if you are by the water 

03

 

Warped or swollen sashes

 

Timber swells with moisture and binds. Matt eases and adjusts the sash, repairs any damage and seals the edges.

04

 

Stiff handles and stays

 

Handles, stays and restrictors seize or loosen. Matt fits quality replacements that are safer and easier to use.

05

 

Draughts and leaks

 

Perished seals let in cold air and rain. Matt renews the seals, draught proofs the window and repairs water damage.

06

 

Problem not listed?

 

Describe it to Matt or send him a photo. He will tell you honestly what your window needs, with no obligation.

Casement trouble? Call Matt on 0409 448 107 for a free, no obligation assessment.

AWNING & HOPPER WINDOWS

 

Awning window problems

 

Top hinged windows that open out from the bottom, often in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.

01

 

Painted shut

 

Units painted into their frames can crack if forced. Matt frees them carefully and checks they open and close cleanly.

02

 

Seized hinges

 

Friction hinges rust or wear out. Matt fits new hinges so the window opens smoothly and holds its position.

03

 

Failed seals

 

Perished rubber seals let in cold air, moisture and noise. Matt replaces them and draught proofs the window.

04

 

Rotten frames or sashes

 

Water damage rots the bottom edge. Matt rebuilds it with Evermend epoxy timber repair, sanded and painted to match.

05

 

Faulty winder or handle

 

Crank winders and handles strip or break. Matt replaces them with quality hardware that suits the window.

06

 

Misaligned or poor fit

 

Houses settle and timber moves. Matt realigns and adjusts the sash so it closes, seals and latches properly.

Awning or hopper window playing up? Call Matt on 0409 448 107 for a free assessment.

THE FIX

 

Services that solve these problems

 

Most window problems come down to one of these services. Each is a complete overhaul, never a quick patch.

Draught proofing

 

Our most requested service. Seals the gaps that let in cold, dust and noise, without changing how your windows look.

 

✓  High performance draught beading

✓  Stops rattles, dust and street noise

✓  Invisible from inside and out

Sash cord replacement

 

For traditional weighted sashes that are stuck, dropping or won't stay open.

 

✓  New cords on every sash

✓  Weights rebalanced

✓  Smooth, one hand operation

Spiral balance repairs

 

For later era sashes that use spiral balances instead of cords and weights.

 

✓  Worn balances replaced

✓  Damage repaired

✓  Windows that open, hold and close

Glass repair & upgrades

 

Replace broken panes, or upgrade for warmth, quiet and privacy.

 

✓  Broken or cracked panes replaced

✓  Acoustic and privacy glass

✓  Slim vacuum insulated glazing

Sash window hardware

 

Locks, lifts and restrictors in period or modern styles.

 

✓  Improved security

✓  Child safety restrictors

✓  Strata compliance

Not sure what your windows need?

 

Matt will assess them on site and explain your options, free and with no obligation.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

 

Window problems: questions & answers

 

The questions Matt hears most. Anything else? Call 0409 448 107.

Why is my sash window so hard to open?

 

The usual causes are layers of paint, swollen timber, or broken cords and weights. Matt frees the sashes, repairs what is worn and rebalances them so they glide again.

 

Why do my windows rattle in the wind?

 

There is a gap between the sash and the frame, often from worn beads. Draught proofing holds each sash firmly and stops the rattle.

 

Why does my sash window keep dropping?

 

Usually a snapped cord or a worn spiral balance. New cords or balances let the sash stay wherever you leave it.

 

Can rotten window timber be repaired?

 

Yes. Matt cuts back the decayed timber and rebuilds it with Evermend epoxy timber repair, then sands and paints it to match.

 

Is it better to repair or replace old timber windows?

 

Repair is often the better choice. Original timber is high quality, and restoring it keeps the character of your home. Matt will give you an honest view.

 

Can you fix a casement window that will not close properly?

 

Yes. It is usually worn hinges, stays or seals, or timber that has moved. These can be replaced or adjusted so the window closes and seals again.

 

How do I know what my window needs?

 

Send Matt a photo or book a free assessment. He will tell you honestly what it needs, with no obligation.

Can a painted shut window be opened without damage?

 

Yes. Matt cuts the paint line carefully and frees the sash without splitting timber or cracking glass.

 

How can I reduce street noise through my windows?

 

Draught proofing seals the gaps that let noise in, and acoustic or vacuum insulated glass can reduce it further.

 

Do you repair awning and hopper windows?

 

Yes. Matt fixes seized hinges, broken winders, failed seals and rotten timber on awning and hopper windows.

 

Can you replace broken window hardware?

 

Yes. Matt supplies and fits locks, lifts, pulleys, stays, hinges and winders to suit your windows.

 

How much do window repairs cost in Sydney?

 

Every window is different, so Matt gives you a free, itemised quote on site, with no hidden extras.

 

Which areas of Sydney do you cover?

 

All across Sydney, including North Sydney, the North Shore, the Northern Beaches and the Inner West. Unsure? Call 0409 448 107.

 

Do you clean up after the job?

 

Always. Floors and furniture are protected while Matt works, and he removes every scrap and tests each window with you before he leaves.

WHERE MATT WORKS

 

Areas covered across Sydney

 

Sash window repairs and restoration across Sydney, including:

AREA COVERED

 

North Sydney

 

Including Kirribilli, Neutral Bay, Cremorne, Mosman, Crows Nest and surrounds.

AREA COVERED

 

North Shore

 

Including Lane Cove, Chatswood, Willoughby, Lindfield, Gordon and surrounds.

AREA COVERED

 

Northern Beaches

 

Including Manly, Dee Why, Collaroy, Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon.

AREA COVERED

 

Inner West

 

Including Balmain, Rozelle, Glebe, Annandale, Leichhardt, Newtown and surrounds.

Elsewhere in Sydney? Call Matt on 0409 448 107 →

START A CONVERSATION

 

Let's bring your windows back.

 

Tell Matt a little about your home and he'll be in touch to arrange a free assessment, with no obligation.

 

PHONE

0409 448 107

Licensed & insured carpenter
Lic. 215324C · ABN 75 628 916 530

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FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTES

 

Ready to talk about your windows?

 

Send Matt a few details and photos through the contact page, or simply give him a call. He will arrange a time to look at your windows and give you a clear, itemised quote.

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