Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a 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. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be fixed with the right tools and persistence.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can find this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority of the time.
You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights will need to 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 loose. After window repairs Hayes have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of window sash components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window may require replacement.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.