Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. 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 that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be fixed with the proper tools and persistence.
A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most cases.
Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your sash window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high 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 decay.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. window repairs may require a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should 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 more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.
One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets must be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can assist in resolving 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 to be removed. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.