Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. With a little effort they can be repaired to a high level of performance.

First, cut off the seal with a 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 the label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require care. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, Windows Repair special products, and secondary glazing may all be used to reduce the air leakage inside the sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can cause water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option, but it can tear, and can detract from the appearance of windows.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure 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 be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash as well as the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash. There should be an extra inch each side to allow to allow movement. The strip should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, make sure you use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to issues. Common problems include rattling, draughts or sticking. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If you encounter any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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 install brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required, Windows Repair it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit properly into the slots of the window frame.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different degree and amount of knowledge. For example when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best choice. However, if the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the severity of the problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash window repair and can usually be solved without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. For these reasons, many choose to work with a professional.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. You can also install an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from rattling.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a major one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to professionals. However, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a hidden cavity and held by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and cords for the sash. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.