Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.
One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can build up in the channels they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority times.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.
First, clean 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 location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, must be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
window repair near me is a major concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.