Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. This is neither optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. 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 accumulated. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in most cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They can be caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general overhaul you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired 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 stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay.
Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an upvc window repair near me updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window to open and then the ratchets must be reset.
This problem can be resolved 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 can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.
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