Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several options you can take 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 buy at most hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.
The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of sash window components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk cord that has snapped or the result of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.