Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of an expert most of the time.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you should 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 can be a concern with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. Brentwood double glazing repair can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
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 generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to a snapped sash cord or the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.
The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.