Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between sash frame are the main source of drafts. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from a sash window, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can lead to water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood, and mould growth. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it can rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of a window.

It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing new sash runners. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom 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 buildings the gap between sash and frame is usually wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is important to account for this when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an additional inch on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the double glazed window repair (Perthinside.com) sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can get rusty. Also, use high-quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. When these problems occur it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash however, it can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level as its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as the re-glazing process 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 prevent the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required it can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows need planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash prior installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each will require a different level and level of expertise. For instance when a sash upvc window repair has a large piece of glass missing, a replacement will be the best option. 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 condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. These issues usually point to an inevitable replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draught proofing and Double glazed window repair secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It might not be necessary or suitable to replace a window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.

A specialist can help restore sash windows to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It can also be helpful to put in a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it off with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a crucial one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can also lower energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could become sloppy or draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional since it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or Double Glazed Window Repair lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and secured by cords. To stop the sash falling into the void, hit it with nails and remove the weight.

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

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.