Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. With a little care they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop using a utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead and remove the upper sash by removing chains or cords, and then storing the equipment in a bag labeled.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside a sash.

A gap between the top or 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 mould growth. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be necessary if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and a better performance 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 using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting material.

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

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. Common problems include rattling, stickiness or draughts. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but can restore the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is re-glazing 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required it can be constructed using the same style to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your property. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they are different shapes, the new sash will not fit inside the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different degree and amount of expertise. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be a better alternative. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair timber windows could be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why it's often the only option to solve these issues. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace the window. For instance, a fogging glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

A specialist can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from shaking.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a putty blade. Reassemble the window, Sash Windows Repair attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and install the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or become draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the window frame, so it's best left to a professional. However, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a concealed cavity and held by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed, clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords of the sash. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.