Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through 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 off any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better glide. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority times.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more 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's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.
One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be read more due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.