Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in the majority of instances.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as 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 defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to prevent future rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
First, take off 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", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. In window repairs , this may lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced, a 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 the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of your home, so it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.