Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will bed each pan by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and persistence.
One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to 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. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. You can purchase this at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam it could be defective. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most instances.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are some options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a complete refurbishment, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of issues with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.
The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a smart idea to check inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is essential 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 is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of the sash window's components.
It is a major concern when triple and double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity of the sash windows may be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced by a different option.
A common window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the possibility of draughts.
