Tips For Explaining Sash Window Repair To Your Boss
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside noise and air in and your energy costs can increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. The lubricant can be found at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be applied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can lead to wood to rot.
The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
As time passes, the bottom rails 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 consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped sash cord or a sign of an issue with the sash's or ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.