Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues, including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to a top level of performance.

First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop using the knife of a utility. Then, remove the staff bead, then remove the upper sash by removing cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing may be used to limit the air leakage in the shutter.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can lead to the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it tends to rip and Sash Windows Repair may alter the look of your window.

It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the meeting rail and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is important to account for this when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip must be cut to the length of the sash, and with an additional inch for movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, make sure you use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Common problems include rattling, draughts or sticking. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also involves 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for listed properties where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

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

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each will require a different degree and cost of knowledge. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then a replacement will be the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or even necessary to replace a window. A foggy glass problem for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common issues like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners would want to take on themselves. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss from the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Store the hardware in a secure place. 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, reconnect 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 homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits but the original features of an older house provide authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can also lower energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to professionals. With the right tools and know-how it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower upvc window repairs sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is supported by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.