Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will lay each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double glazed window repairs-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. On the other hand, a window repairs that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling 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 been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.
Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most times.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and then push into 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 expensive and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your window repairs draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, should be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from the weather over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.