Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and determination.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by 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. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. 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 case.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. window repair can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put 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 expensive and you'll need 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.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
The good thing is that your sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary 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 lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are 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, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
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 the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present, and then 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 draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.