Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to help balance her window.
Pam will bed each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be solved with the right tools and a little perseverance.
One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth glide. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority often.
You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords and 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 help to restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation, which can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus here consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, must be removed. These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial 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. Sills that have 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 evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window may have to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal may be applied 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 improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.