20 Things You Need To Be Educated About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window repair.
Pam will lay each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm, window repair and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise through, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be rectified by using the right tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to block it could be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority times.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good thing is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to provide high performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, 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 that the timber is dry.
The first thing to do is to clean any paint off 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", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become 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 assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.
It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.