Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little care, they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop using the knife of a utility. Then, take off the staff bead and take the upper sash out by removing chains or cords, and then storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. There are a variety of methods to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This can cause the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option however it is prone to tear and affect the appearance of windows.

It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings, the gap between frames and sash is typically larger 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 consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow movement. The strip should be cut square and positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass will get rusty. Also, make sure to use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash double glazed window repairs near me is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Common issues include rattling draughts or sticking. 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 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 the original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as 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 put in brush pile weather strip to reduce rattling.

If a new sash is needed It can be made with the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your home. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

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

When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and price. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be a better option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. There are other options to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the severity of a issue, as it may not be feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something most homeowners want to tackle themselves. This is why many opt to hire a professional.

A specialist can help restore windows made of sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Store the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair the sash window is an important one for homeowners. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features in an older home can add the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Inspecting them regularly can help lower the cost of energy. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the window frame, so it's best left to professionals. However, with the right tools and know-how, it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and secured by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.