Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.
Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands with usage.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A common window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often help resolve this problem. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.