Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified with the right tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. 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 an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. window repairs near me will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.