Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have a variety of problems such as rattles and draughts. They may also be inefficiently insulation. A little attention can often restore them to a top level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

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

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is a common problem. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting, and mold growth. The gap can be closed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone 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 are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings the gap between the sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material 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 squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass may be rusty. Also, make sure you use high-quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning, historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Common issues include rattling stickiness or draughts. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, damaged frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. When these issues arise, it's time for a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window the same or better than its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves 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). Finally, Sash Windows Repair it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.

If a new sash is required, it can be made 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 listed buildings where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

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

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each option will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

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

It is important to determine the severity of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. A foggy glass problem for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to tackle on their own. For these reasons, many choose to work with an expert.

A professional can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from squealing.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, Sash Windows Repair reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair timber windows or replace windows with sash is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the window frame and should be left to professionals. But, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes are removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the cords for the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.