Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose sight when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. This is neither optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved 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 off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most often.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. window repairs near me are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them loose. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.
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 will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with a different option.
A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.