Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. A little bit of care can often restore them to their original performance.

First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a bag that has the label.

Sealing

Sash windows are gorgeous in older buildings, however they require care. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within a sash window, 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 cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is prone to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older buildings, the gap between sash and frame is usually wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting material.

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

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful and historic feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are susceptible to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If you require a new sash the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve your property's heritage style. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash before installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For instance, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a small 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 windows repair 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. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only logical solution. There are other ways to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It's important to consider the extent of a issue, since it might not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and is usually able to be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and have a lot of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. Because of this, many opt to hire an expert.

A professional can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat from the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from shaking.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old, Sash Windows Repair hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for homeowners to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional because it requires extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, take out the sash at the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is held by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and cords of the sash. Then, using 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 prevent puncturing the weight that is balancing.

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