Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. window repairs near me that is too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Fortunately, the majority of issues with 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. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
A pin that keeps the rail in place might have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of instances.
Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general renovation you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dust or dirt can often help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease draughts.