Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on 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 will set each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better glide. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most instances.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they will need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. As upvc windows repair , this could lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.
A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.