Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to balance her window.
Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she puts into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to make them more gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to block it could be faulty. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of instances.
Make use of a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window sash without having to take it off completely. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective however, you will require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general renovation it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically 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 timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The next step is to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood in the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window as well, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.
Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of window sash components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash window may require replacement.
A common sash window repair problem is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or a problem with sash the ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.
