Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with a variety of problems such as rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, remove the seal of paint from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in a sash.

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

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be required when a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening easily. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fit and better operation of the window.

In older structures the gap between the sash and frame is usually wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut square and placed in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive 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. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights are all causes of problems. If you encounter any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore the appearance and function to the same level in its original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent rattling.

If a replacement sash is needed it can be constructed with the same design to match your existing frame. This will preserve the heritage style of your house. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit in the window frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between replacement or repair, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. For instance, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then a replacement will be the best choice. But in the event that the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has been rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows repairs near me rather than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Consider the extent of the issue. It might not be necessary or even suitable 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 poor seal can also often be remedied with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. Most homeowners don't want to take apart the window frame to fix these problems. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Take off the cords or Sash Windows Repair chains on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for homeowners to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older home can add the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can also lower the cost of energy. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This could result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash upvc window repair requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and is best left to a professional. However, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to repair old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides and knot 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 which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by a rope. To stop the sash falling into the void make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and remove any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.