Is Technology Making Sash Window Repair Better Or Worse?
Is Technology Making Sash Window Repair Better Or Worse?
Blog Article
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam will lay each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view when they squeak during a storm. 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 ideal however they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic as well as a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it still jams it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash, or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.
Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call an expert most of the time.
If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an hammer.
Draughts
Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you will need to reapply it over the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and pose a fire hazard. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of problems with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to window repairs spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is kept dry.
The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more strongly than the other. The sash could slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.
In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to determine the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of sash window components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's rats, a bit of gentle persuasion will usually work.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be put on the staff bead to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.