Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating 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 been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. It is available in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most instances.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting 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 on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood decay.
Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which is then required to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of sash window components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.
One common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash rattles. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.