Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or dnpaint.co.kr washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in, and your energy bills may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal however they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can build up in the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. You can purchase this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have lost its grip. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a reliable draught blocker, maismile.co.kr but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive renovation you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. 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 sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many more years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, fit since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower 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 the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash can slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and tear from the weather over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window repairs that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. It could be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.