10 Things Everyone Hates About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that 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
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most instances.
You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, 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 fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. Once 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 with the tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with time.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting 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 imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can cause wood to rot.
Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, remove 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). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.
