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 care they can be repaired to their original performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to reduce air leaks in the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

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

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents the windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is prone to tear and can alter the appearance of your upvc window repairs near me.

It is essential to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.

In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

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

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning, historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but can restore the appearance and function to the same level in its original condition. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing 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 is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required it can be constructed with the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the traditional style of your home. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in, it's best to compare its metal tabs to those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and price. For example, if a sash upvc window repair near me has a large piece of glass missing, replacing it is the best option. However, if the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a issue, as it may not be feasible to replace a complete window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and have lots of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to fix common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame in order to repair these issues. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

A specialist can assist in restoring sash windows back to their original glory or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat loss out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from squealing.

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 remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace the sash window is a crucial one for homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide a host of benefits, the original features of an older home add personality and value to the property and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can reduce the energy cost. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

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

The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and held by rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and the sash cords. Then using a utility knife take off any paint from the sash stop. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent cutting the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the beads that separate if required. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the sash pulley axles.