Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. With a little care, they can be restored to their original performance.

First, remove the seal of paint using an utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead, then take the upper sash out and remove the chains or cords, and then storing the hardware in a bag marked.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them or repairing them, or sealing them.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of the sill and the sash. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it has a tendency to tear, and can make a difference to the appearance of a window.

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

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is crucial to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed 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 as brass can rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window to the same or better than the original condition. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is re-glazing 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 minimize the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required it can be constructed using the same style to match your old frame. This will preserve the traditional style of your home. This is particularly important for Sash Windows Repair buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Before putting the new window in place before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

If a double glazed window repairs has been damaged, it is essential to decide between replacement or repair, because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and price. For instance, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best option. However in the event that the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only logical solution. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace windows. Foggy glass for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cable. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window 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 location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty using a heat gun, and scrape it off with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist because they require extensive removal. With the right tools and skills it's possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and anchored by a rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, hit it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint off the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.