Unquestionable Evidence That You Need Sash Window Repair
Unquestionable Evidence That You Need Sash Window Repair
Blog Article
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will lay each pane by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. 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 catch any paint dust and chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. 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. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hung in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call a professional in most instances.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out 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 top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it up and push it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten however the best method to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side window and door repair more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
As time passes the rails on the bottom 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 is required to examine the situation and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A typical problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.