Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have various issues such as rattles and draughts. They may also be poorly insulated. With a little effort they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as cracked putty, wet rot and drafts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing may all be used to minimize the air leakage in the sash.

A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood and growth of mold. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it is prone to rip, and it can detract from the appearance of windows.

It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures the gap between the sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, and with an additional inch each side to allow to allow movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will be rusty. Also, make sure to use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. Rotting frames and meeting rails as well as broken glazing bars, damaged weights or rotten frames are all causes of problems. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore the appearance and function to the same standard as 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 rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the window frame slots.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair the damaged window, since each will require a different degree and amount of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing then replacing it will be a better option. But, if the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has been rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the extent of a issue, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like broken panes or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to take on themselves. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping through the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the upvc window repair stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features of an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Inspecting them regularly can lower the cost of energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window with sash to a specialist because it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and know-how it's possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and Sash Windows Repair sash bars, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads that separate if required. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the sash pulley axles.