Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's a nightmare. window repairs in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be solved with the right tools and a little determination.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and may be an hazard to fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore 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 can help reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be solved 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. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.