15 Reasons To Not Ignore Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. double glazing Biggleswade in the event of a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in, and your energy bills may increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be addressed with the appropriate tools and determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to stop the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that keeps the rail in place might have lost its grip. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.
The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to make sure they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window, or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.
Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.