Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will bed each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. Woking window repair in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
A pin that keeps the rail in place might have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of an expert most of the time.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. 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 on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to prevent future rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window will require replacement.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.