Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise through and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved 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 away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will have to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a primer coat should 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 balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If window repair is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.