7 Things About Sash Window Repair You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating 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. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.
Use https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/grays-windowrepair/ if the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some things you can do to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll have to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied 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, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have 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 repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (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 are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use an instrument to break them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of sash window components.
It can be a real concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.