Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have various issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly insulated. A little bit of care can often restore them to their original performance.

First, take off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a container with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can cause water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it is prone to tear and affect the appearance of a window.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners that will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash as well as the frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an extra inch on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can rust. Also, make sure you use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Common problems include rattling, draughts or sticking. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged weights or rotten frames can cause issues. When these problems occur it's time for upvc repairs near Me or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves painting the frame with timber and reglazing with traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of glass). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to reduce the rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different sizes the new sash may not fit in the slots of the window frame.

When a window is damaged it's essential to choose between replacement or repair, since each kind of repair will require a different level of expertise and price. For instance when a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best choice. But, if the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. But there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of the problem, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows feature a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners opt to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat through the window. It can also be helpful to put in a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin the upvc repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe location. The heat gun will soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits but the original features of a home that was built earlier give authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional, as they require extensive removal. With the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads that separate if required. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.