Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake in the event of storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the appropriate tools and determination.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better glide. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to call an expert in most instances.
Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you'll 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 an hammer.
window repairs can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are some ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with time.
Gapseal is a stronger solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and must be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched 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 have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and correct any minor defects in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.
The majority of issues that arise that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to prevent future rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's side that permit access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong way.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to 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 possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
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 the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity of the sash windows may be in danger and will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the possibility of draughts.
