Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified with the proper tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in most cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose an hazard to fire. The sash has 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 it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
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 in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window too to make sure they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.
As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
window repairs near me and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of your home, so it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or the result of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.