20 Fun Infographics About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll sway in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.
A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and put plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth glide. You can find this at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.
Another reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is simple to remove if you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could 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 lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood rot.
The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're attached by nails or paint. 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 the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.
As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an sash cord that has snapped or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.