Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam will set each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. It is available in most 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 faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of instances.
Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around 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 foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing 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 beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first step is to strip any paint off 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, which permit access to the weights should be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the here situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of window sash components.
It is a major concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.