Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop 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 the label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but 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 method to eliminate these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside a shutter.

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

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it tends to rip and may alter the look of your window.

It is important to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older structures the gap between the frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive Vstrip, Sash Windows Repair however it is crucial to account for this when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash and with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be susceptible to issues. Common problems include rattling, stickiness or draughts. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to the same or better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as re-glazing using 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 reduce rattling.

If you require a new sash it can be constructed using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to windows will require planning permission.

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

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different level and amount of expertise. For example when a sash window has a significant piece of glass missing, a replacement will be the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why replacing them is often the only option to solve these issues. 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 important to determine the severity of the issue, since it might not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. For instance, a foggy glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be remedied by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame in order to fix these problems. Because of this, many opt to hire an expert.

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 may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat loss from the window. It is also possible to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window repair near me stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a crucial one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits but the original features of an older house add authenticity and value to the property and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become dislodged or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional, as it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and held by rope. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

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

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.