Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly insulated. A little care can often restore them to their original performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in the Sash.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood, and mold growth. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They are available from DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.

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

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, and with an additional inch on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass may be rusty. Also, make sure you use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning and historic feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as and broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to the same or better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. 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 rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows require planning permission.

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

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each choice will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. However when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill is damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, however it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. However, there are ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace the window. For instance, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. It is typically possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or update them to meet modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a safe location. The heat gun will soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or installed silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is crucial for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair timber windows rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can help reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to the professionals. However, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Then, pull out the cords or installed chains on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. 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 concealed inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.