Sash Window Repair Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window. Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss. Sticking Sashes When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the appropriate tools and persistence. One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks. Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips. Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better gliding. You can find this in many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it. If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this. Another possible cause of an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact an expert in the majority of cases. If a pin doesn't fall 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 repair damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with an hammer. Draughts Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They're effective however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage. Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window. Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed. A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home. Decay If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood decay. The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry. First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The pocket covers are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay. It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction. Poor Security As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks on the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary. Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement. It can be a real concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash window will require replacement. A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset. Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will 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 lessen draughts.
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