Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. double glazing Margate in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified with the right tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and place 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, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another 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 need to call an expert in most cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require 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 bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.
First, 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 should be removed. They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
Over time the rails on the bottom may 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 will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. 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 can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.