Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to block it could be defective. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.
Another reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most often.
You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. 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 a hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While window repair near me is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible 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", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.