Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It’s a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. You’ll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through, and your energy bills can increase. Both of these scenarios aren’t ideal however they can be rectified with the right tools and persistence.
A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues 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 paint that’s built up. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this at many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash, or if it’s snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix, and you’ll need to call a professional in most instances.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there’s not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It’s not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the upvc window repair, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you’ll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the wood. It’s less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows’ sash frames aren’t beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure 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 could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The “pocket covers” are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame’s side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you’ll likely require an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to make sure they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more 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 using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. Over time, this can result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced – costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of sash window components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will have to be replaced.
One common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash’s the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash’s ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash’s sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash’s operation and reduce draughts.