Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise through and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching 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 that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional the majority often.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general overhaul, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could 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 removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood to rot.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged 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 remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.
It is a major concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may 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. It could be due to an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease the possibility of draughts.