Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with a variety of problems, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly insulated. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside a Sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking in the wood, rotting, and mould growth. The gap can be closed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it can tear, and can affect the appearance of windows.

It is crucial to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners, which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

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

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, with an additional inch each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be prone to problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. When these problems occur it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will restore the appearance and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also includes re-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 install brush pile weather strip to reduce rattling.

If a replacement sash is required it can be constructed with the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the style and character of your house. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes to windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window on, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or Sash Windows Repair replacement because each type of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass window repair. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. But there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even necessary to replace windows. Foggy glass, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like broken panes or sash cables that have snapped. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.

A professional can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping from the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project start by removing the double glazed window repairs stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and install the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing a sash window is an important one for homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide a host of benefits however, the original features of an older home provide character and value to the property and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these issues can lead to higher costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or draughty. It is best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and skills it is possible to repair an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, take out the sash at the bottom. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and anchored by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-install the axles for the sash pulleys.