Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles, companies and poor insulation. With a little effort, they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, cut off the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also trigger noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside the shutter.

A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option but it is prone to tear and detract from the appearance of windows.

It is essential to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash 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 structures the gap between sash and frame is usually wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the length of the sash, with an extra inch each side to allow to allow for movement. It should be cut square and placed in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Common problems include rattling, stickiness or draughts. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. It also involves 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash needed, it can be made with the same design to match your old frame. This will help preserve the heritage style of your property. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

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

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each option will require a different level and level of expertise. For instance when a sash window repair near me has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a issue, since it might not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to remove the upvc window repair near me frame to fix the issues. Because of this, many choose to work with a specialist.

A professional can help restore sash windows back to their original glory or even bring them up to current energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat loss out of the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from rattling.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Place the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older home can provide the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the frame of the window, so it's best left to professionals. But, with the right tools and experience it's possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity and is secured by an elastic cord. To stop the sash falling into the void, make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and cords of the sash. Then using a utility knife take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage 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 properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and re-attach the sash pulley axles.