Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can be plagued by a variety of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. A little care can often bring them back to a top level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require care. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, broken cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in the sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can cause moisture leaking in the wood, rotting, and mould growth. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze may be required in the event that a gap blocks windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can tear, and can affect the appearance of a window.

It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

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

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning historical feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken double glazing repair Woodley bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. When these problems occur it's time for a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window to the same or superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also involves painting the frame of timber 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattling and improve insulation.

If a replacement sash needed, it can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your property. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

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

If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and price. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass that is missing, then a replacement will be the best choice. However when the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun damaged, a repair would be the better option.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It's important to consider the extent of a problem, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can be fixed by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame in order to repair these issues. This is why many choose to work with a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping out of the window. It may also be beneficial to add a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a crucial one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features in an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and damage 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 become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a sash windows to professionals, as they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and skills it's possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove 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 weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords of the sash. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.