Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through and your energy costs could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. Additionally the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a general overhaul you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will require replacement.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
window repairs can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.