Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little attention can often restore them to their original performance.

First, remove the seal of paint from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Keep the hardware in a bag with an identification 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. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing double glazed windows or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.

A common issue 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 lead to water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be required when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, Sash Windows Repair however it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. 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 down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older structures the gap between the frames and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip must be cut to the length of the sash, and with an extra inch to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, make sure you use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. These windows are gorgeous however they are susceptible to problems. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash is required it can be constructed with the same design to match your old frame. This will preserve the style and character of your home. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each will require a different degree and amount of knowledge. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be the better alternative. If the glass is only damaged in a small region or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only logical solution. But there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, such as installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the upvc window repair frame which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

A specialist can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping out of the window. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Place the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and Sash Windows Repair lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for homeowners to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older home can provide character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as it requires extensive dismantling. However, with the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. The next step is to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and secured by a rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using a nail and sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after 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 on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.