15 Strange Hobbies That Will Make You Better At Sash Window Repair
window repair Weybridge can get out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam will lay each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be corrected with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call an expert most often.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you will need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to addressing any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to an sash cord that has snapped or an indication of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.