Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have various issues that include rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little attention can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

First, remove the paint seal from the window stop using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require maintenance. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in a shutter.

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

If a gap is preventing the windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

It is essential to measure the entire window opening before installing new sash runners. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

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

A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash, with an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glass bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level as its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-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). In addition, it is recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to lessen rattling and improve insulation.

If you require a new sash it can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain your property's heritage style. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, Sash Windows Repair as any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window repair near with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit properly into the window frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each will require a different level and cost of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is a better alternative. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these problems. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It might not be necessary or even appropriate to replace windows. A glass that is foggy for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows feature a complicated design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners decide to engage a professional for these reasons.

A professional can help restore sash windows back to their original glory or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a crucial one for homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits however, the original features of an older home provide personality and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could be slack or become draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. With the right tools and experience it is possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, take out the sash at the bottom. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a large iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and anchored by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and 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 when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.