Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will lay each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. window repairs 'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. 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. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.
Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll have to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very 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 ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
First, clean 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). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that allow 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 will probably need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too to make sure they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets need to be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.