Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double glaze repair-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. This is neither optimal, but both can be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the upvc window repairs frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. You can purchase this at many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or Sash Windows Repair down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional most of the time.
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, and you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. 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 placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed 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, should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window repairs components.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.
A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.