Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal, but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and persistence.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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 built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of an expert most times.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can let cold air 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 using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require 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 at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout 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 put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and may be risky for fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be 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 may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window, too to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.