Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will set each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. Most of these problems 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 use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can find this in many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and wears away with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.