Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise through and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first step is to strip 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 placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights should be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can drop off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on 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 sash window repairs are necessary.
In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or the result of a problem with the sash the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. 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 in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.