Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will set each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through 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. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to stop it could be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
Another reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call an expert most of the time.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, but they'll need to be replaced regularly because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve 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 removing windows and can help reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood rot.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could 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 susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As window repairs , this could cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
A common sash repair problem 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's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.