10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds Concerning Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake during a storm, and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. This is neither optimal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. 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.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better glide. The lubricant can be found at most home improvement shops or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.
Another reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most cases.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be applied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights should be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them off. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, 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 smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and tear due to weather conditions 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 essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
It can be very concerning 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 in danger and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.