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 scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window repairs.
Pam will set each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window repairs stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.
Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove 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 inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A typical problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.