20 Resources That Will Make You More Efficient With Sash Window Repair
window repair near me may become out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the proper tools and determination.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or on the internet. 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. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in the majority of cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of window sash components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.