Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. You can find this at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call an expert most times.
Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes 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 concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
window repair near me is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.