Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for commercial scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.
Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into 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 and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll shake during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. It is available in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional most of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or Repairing Upvc Windows by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with time.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not 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, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be a real concern when double glazing repairers and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.
A common sash window repair (Going in Stroitelnie Materiali) problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.