Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and determination.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Use double glazing repair Crystal Palace and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.
Another reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional most of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
Gapseal is a more permanent 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 on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will have to be applied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects 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 deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that provide 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 will likely require a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.
In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.
One common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord or an indication of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.