Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to a high level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot, and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary double glazing repair Glazing (http://spacebohemian.com) can be used to limit the air leakage within the shutter.

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

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.

It is crucial to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.

A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, and with an additional inch on each side to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed to align with the angle of the sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a variety of problems. Common problems include rattling, stickiness or draughts. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If you experience any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash but can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. 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 fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed from 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 changes to the windows will require planning permission.

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

If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. For instance, if a sash window has a significant piece of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is rotting, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. There are other options to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It's important to consider the extent of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have lots of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. For these reasons, many opt to hire a professional.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop 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 on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a putty blade. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is an important one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can also save energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and should be left to the professionals. But, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides, and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is secured by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the double glazing repair bars and sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.