20 Resources That'll Make You Better At Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call a professional most of the time.
Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically 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 ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation, which can cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window as well, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window may have to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. double glazing repair Ewell will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.