Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling 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 built up. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and 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 lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have lost its grip. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most instances.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible 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" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to make sure they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they aren't balanced. South Ockendon window repairs could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.