Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of 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, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs can increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority times.
You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. Redbridge window repair can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.
Most of the problems that you'll encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It is a major concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will require replacement.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or the result of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce the appearance of 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.