Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll be difficult to see if they rattle during a thunderstorm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside air and noise in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be corrected by using 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 they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most times.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are a few options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged 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 provide high performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible door repair (http://www.softjoin.co.Kr/gnu5/bbs/board.php?bo_table=qa&wr_id=931937) rotten timber but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, take off 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). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed repair of sash windows or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.