Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam will set each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills may increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If window repair near me is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most cases.
Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped 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 window without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used 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 can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.
It can be a real concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.