Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority often.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very effective, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the 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 can drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
window repairs near me and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.