Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy bills may increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be faulty. Check to see if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call an expert most of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are some options you can take to help prevent draughts in your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' 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 scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept 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 rail that joins it (this will depend on the location 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 lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). window repair near me is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash could fall off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open and then 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 cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.