9 Signs That You're An Expert Sash Window Repair Expert
9 Signs That You're An Expert Sash Window Repair Expert
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Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
When your double-hung window gets 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 will allow external air and noise through and your energy bills can increase. This is neither optimal, but both can be addressed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it is still jamming it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.
A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This is a quick 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 can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.
A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you will need to apply it several times over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose risky for fire. Additionally, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood defects. It's less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.
Decay
If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can lead to wood to rot.
The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.
First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights should be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which is then repairmywindowsanddoors required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the home. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A typical window repair issue for sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord or a sign of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.