Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional most of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able 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 an tool.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are effective, although they will need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve 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 degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.
Most of the problems you Repair My Windows And Doors will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to strip 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). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can 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 necessary 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 could be at risk and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
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 the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce draughts.