Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will bed each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. It is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of instances.
You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.
Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to strip 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 location of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. window repair can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a major cause of concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window will have to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could 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 sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.