10 Things Everybody Hates About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will set each pane by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use 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 using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. You can find this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact 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 is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. Rushden double glazing repairs used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of window sash components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.