Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance or 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 searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows get stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in, and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be rectified with the right tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most 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 built up. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth sliding. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it is still jamming, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority times.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good thing is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can cause wood rot.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash can fall off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
Similarly, over double glazing repair Waltham Cross at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of window sash components.
It is a major concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window will have to be replaced.
One common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.