20 Things You Need To Know About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will set each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of a storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. It is available in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in an expert most of the time.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation 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 involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.
Decay
The good thing is that your sash window repairs frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus eats away at the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be very concerning 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 window could be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.
One common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce 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 enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.