7 Things About Sash Window Repair You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
7 Things About Sash Window Repair You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Blog Article
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and keep an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers 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 costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy costs may increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to stop it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.
Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the tool.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are some things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A alternative that is more durable 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 by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
A better option 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 the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good news is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might 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 bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, glass repair this can lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water marks on the window or 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 repairs to the window sash are needed.
In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.
One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or a problem with sash ratchets. If the problem is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.