Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will lay each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle during a storm and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to 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 using a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A better option 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, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. After the filler is dry, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks on the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
Similarly, over time the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the 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 decrease the risk of draughts.