14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Sash Window Repair
14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Sash Window Repair
Blog Article
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam will set each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and persistence.
A common issue with old weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Use a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to block the sash cable could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
A pin that keeps the rail in place could have been ripped out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of instances.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to prevent draughts from entering your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.
Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor defects in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are essential in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.
The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is dry.
The first thing to do is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail may need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window too to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement of the glazing repairs sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be a real concern when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease draughts.