Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
When your double-hung window gets stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow air and noise in, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved by 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 away any paint that's built up. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be defective. Verify if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will have to call a professional the majority times.
Use a wood hardener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced which can let cold air seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied over the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into 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. The sash has to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.
As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the wood is kept dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to get them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. window repairs Colchester shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will have to be replaced.
One common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or the result of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.