Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be prone to a variety of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little care, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, knock off the seal on the paint of the window stop with a utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead, then take the upper sash out, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage within a shutter.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from opening and shutting easily. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option, but it can tear and detract from the appearance of a window.

It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners that will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

In older structures the gap between sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring material.

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, and with an additional inch to allow for movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful historical feature in many homes. These windows are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten are all causes of problems. When these problems occur it's time for a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, but can bring back the appearance and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is the re-glazing process using 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). In addition, it is recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.

If a new sash is required it can be constructed using the same style to match the frame you have. This will maintain the style and character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window in place, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If they're different sizes the new sash may not fit into the window frame slots.

When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between replacement or repair, since each kind of repair will involve a different level of expertise and expense. If a large portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it would be the better alternative. But, if the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the issue. It might not be necessary or suitable to replace a window. A foggy glass problem for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are a complicated design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. For these reasons, many opt to hire a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window doctor near me frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from getting out of the window. You can also add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from squealing.

To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a putty blade. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features in an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Inspecting them regularly can help reduce energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could be slack or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a sash windows to professionals, as it requires extensive dismantling. But, with the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, double glazing remove any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To stop the sash falling into the void, hit it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.