Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam will set each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be fixed with the right tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can 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 catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of an expert most often.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to remove when you wish to open the window.
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 however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This can include the installation of new sash strings, 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 painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident 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 needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.
A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash rattles. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can 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. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and decrease draughts.