Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double glaze window repair-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be corrected with the right tools and persistence.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Use 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.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.
Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash upvc windows repairs, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door repairing and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can 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 made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.
One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets will 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 carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.