What Freud Can Teach Us About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help 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 prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and persistence.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to consult a professional in most cases.
If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window repairs sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could 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 painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.
The majority of issues you will encounter with sash windows will be readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however, the best method to stop further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.
First, remove 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 position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood in the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the partsing beads run along the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an excellent water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under 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.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of window sash components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of your home, so it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.
The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.
