Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a container with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require care. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to decrease 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 lead to noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and better operation of the window.

In older structures the gap between frame and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow movement. The strip should be cut square and placed so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are prone to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Frames that are rotting and meeting rails as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also includes re-painting the timber frame and re-glazing 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). In addition, it is recommended to put in brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattling and improve insulation.

If a new sash is required, it can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will help preserve 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.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes the new sash may not fit in the slots of the upvc window repairs frame.

If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and cost. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then replacement is the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. There are other ways to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It may not be necessary or even appropriate to replace windows. A foggy glass problem, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

A specialist can help restore sash windows to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat loss through the window. It can also be helpful to add an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a major one for the homeowner. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits however, the original features of an older house provide authenticity and value to the property and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. But, with the right tools and knowledge it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed and a thin strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and held by a cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid damaging the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.