So Youve Purchased Sash Window Repair Now What
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam will lay each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the appropriate tools and determination.
A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most instances.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. window repair '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 on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining 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 defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation which can lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.
