Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating 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 accumulated. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood to rot.
Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent 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 in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. window repairs near me can be spotted by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be the result of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.