Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, remove the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead and take the upper sash out, taking off cords or chains and storing hardware in a bag marked.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They are susceptible to 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.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage within the Sash.

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

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it has a tendency to tear, and can detract from the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners that will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash as well as the frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when cutting and measuring material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, make sure you use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. When these problems occur it's time for a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also involves re-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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to reduce the rattling.

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

Before putting the new double glazed window repairs near Me on It is recommended to examine its metal tabs with those on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the upvc window repair near me frame.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each will require a different degree and cost of expertise. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be an option. However, if the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has been rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why it's often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the extent of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. A foggy glass problem, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like broken panes or snapped sash cable. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners would want to take on themselves. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.

A professional can help restore sash windows to their original splendor, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To begin a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window repair. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using 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 replace or repair their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits however, the original features of a home that was built earlier add character and value to the property and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these issues can lead to higher cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of a window with sash to a specialist, as it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and skills it is possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and supported by a cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.

When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops with a utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.