Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during storms and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better glide. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most instances.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes 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 available at most hardware shops. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is simple to remove if you check here want to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be more info to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
As part of a general overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these more info windows is generally of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.
Most of the problems you will face with sash more info windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or even be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on here the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of sash window components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.