Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed by using the right tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of 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 use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.
Another reason for 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 consult a professional in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective however, you will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
window repairs Kingsbury is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
The majority of problems with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber but the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting 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 side, which allow access to the weights will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repairs to the sash window.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of the sash window's components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.