Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll sway during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which could increase your energy bills. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. It is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be defective. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.
Another possible cause of an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can 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 timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
First, remove 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 location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it back in. If this is happening, the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with a different option.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash rattles. If it's the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to 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 paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.