Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have lost its grip. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most cases.
You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decaying 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. There are some things you can do to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied 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.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a general renovation you can have your window draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.
window repair of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible 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" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could 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 in the wrong way.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window will need to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.