Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, like 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, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
window repair that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.
You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. They're effective however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation, which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is dry.
The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window too, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.
Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present and then 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 that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.