This Is The Ultimate Guide To Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.
Pam will set each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double glazed window repairs-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed with the right tools and persistence.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved 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 accumulated. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that 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 using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll have to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have 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 film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.
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 generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood decay.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them loose. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks on 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 sash window repairs are necessary.
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 the touch. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.