Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. This is neither optimal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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 away any accumulated paint. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to stop it could be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.
Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, 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 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). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to make sure they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. 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 be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.