Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will lay each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can build up in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority times.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good thing is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of click here these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's read more sides that permit access to the weights must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash can fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck check here in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or the result of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle read more pressure is usually enough.
This issue can more info be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.