Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers, to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.
Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to block. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. In time, this may cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
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 can be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
double glazing Richmond and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.
A common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.