Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved 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. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure window repair near me employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block it could be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most instances.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. 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 the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.
The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away 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 prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the sash cord being snapped or a sign of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.