Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. It is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult 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 to fix your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. window repair near me is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete renovation you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues you will face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too to make sure they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will need to be replaced.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.