Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. It is available in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most cases.
You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult check here problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets have click here been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and could cause damage to here the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of sash window components.
It can be very concerning when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A here common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that could be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. more info The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.