Does Technology Make Sash Window Repair Better Or Worse?
Sash Window RepairSash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a thunderstorm. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be fixed by using the right tools and perseverance.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved 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. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will need to call in a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop read more drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of the sash window's components.
Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.