Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in which could increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Fortunately, most issues related to 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. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After using it, you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using a hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the 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 the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood decay.
The majority of problems with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more strongly than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.
window repairs near me is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord or a sign of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and decrease draughts.