Sash
Window RepairSash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. You can purchase this at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
Another reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition the sash will have to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows, and can reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (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 lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could drop off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash Window Repairs (
mogensen-Crouch-2.technetbloggers.De) are necessary.
In 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 touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be a real concern when
double glazed window repairs and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.
This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.
