Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will set each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you should be able to remove the two sashes 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 windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and wears away with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. window repair near me is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting 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 may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of window sash components.
Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.
One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that might be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.