Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove double glazing repair Rushden 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 been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. It is available in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need 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 an expert most often.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making 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 found in many hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. Furthermore the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window, too to make sure they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from the weather over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk and it is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.