Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. window repair Cambridge searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam will set each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm 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 could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be fixed by using the right tools and persistence.
A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may accumulate in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better glide. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams, there could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority times.
If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in 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. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are some things you can do to stop draughts from coming through your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the proper restoration, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can cause wood rot.
The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.
The first step is to clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights, should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.
Poor Security
Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of sash window components.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or problems with sash rattles. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce 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 enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.