Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. 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 that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. window repair near me 'll shake during a storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the proper tools and determination.
A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority times.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts 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 can hinder sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, must be removed. These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them loose. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to examine the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
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 may be at risk and the sash window will have to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.