Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam will lay each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call 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 liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing 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 hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.
It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff door repairs near me bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.