Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam will lay each pan by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that is too loose could let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can build up in the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most often.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you should be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips available at most hardware shops. These are efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the course of the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for a long time. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to stop further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of sash window components.
It is a major concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.
A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the sash cord being snapped or an indication of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce draughts.