Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected by using the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. 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 been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place might have lost its grip. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most times.
Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. 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 alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to size and push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
A more cost-effective solution is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. double glazing repair Bury St Edmunds can restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.
Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, remove 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 sides that allow access to the weights, must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of sash window components.
It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced by 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 the latter is the case the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead to decrease 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 improve the sash's operation and decrease the risk of draughts.