Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They might also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, cut off the seal with a utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash by removing chains or cords, and then storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, Sash Windows Repair but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialty 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 lead to the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is prone to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older buildings, the gap between frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be trimmed squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful historical feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair timber windows your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash but it will restore your sash's look and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box with traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.

If a new sash is needed it can be constructed using the same design to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the heritage style of your property. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes to windows will require planning permission.

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

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each option will require a different level and amount of expertise. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be an alternative. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the issue. It might not be necessary or even suitable to replace windows. A glass that is foggy, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

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 stop heat from getting out of the window repairs. It may also be beneficial to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair the sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older house can add the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape can also lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and Sash Windows Repair sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The mechanism that slides can become dislodged or draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive lead or iron cylinder enclosed inside a hidden compartment and secured by a rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and sash cords. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid damaging the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.