Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Luckily, most 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 use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found at many 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 an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber however the best method to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom check here rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.
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. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
In the same way, over time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate 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, so it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.
A typical sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease draughts.