Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam the sash cable could be faulty. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. window repairs near me are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.
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 great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.