Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and persistence.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of cases.
You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers 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 draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. 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 has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not 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 fall or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. In time, this may lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or the frame get more info turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.
Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.