Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the
upvc window repairs in the event of this.
Another possible cause of a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority often.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you should 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 the Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in the 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 get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with time.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to provide high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood rot.
The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.
The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window, too to make sure they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash
window repairs are necessary.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.
It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish.