14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Refused To Ask Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll sway in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.
Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most cases.
Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using window repairs , you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can block sash travel completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood decay.
Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a very difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. These can sometimes 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 off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. 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 the possibility of draughts.