Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little attention 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 out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. There are a variety of methods to reduce air leaks in a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and growth of mold. The gap can be filled by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents the windows from opening and shutting easily. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option but it is prone to rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of a window.

It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail and Sash Windows Repair from the bottom of the sash 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 buildings the gap between frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can rust. Also, make sure you use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning historical feature in many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glass 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 costly than replacing the sash but can restore the appearance and function to the same standard in its original condition. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and Sash Windows Repair the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves re-painting the frame of timber 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 the rattling and increase insulation.

If a replacement sash needed It can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will preserve the style and character of your property. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows require planning permission.

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

If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and expense. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be the better option. However when the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has begun decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. But there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or suitable to replace a window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. A poor seal can also be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like broken panes or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners would want to tackle themselves. Many homeowners decide to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat through the window repair. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty using a heat gun, and scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Inspecting them regularly can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals since it requires extensive removal. However, with the right tools and experience it's possible to repair old windows with sash 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. Finally, pull out the sash at 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 weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is held by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. When 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 placing the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.