Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be inefficiently insulated. With a little care they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also lead to rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in a sash window, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can cause the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be closed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required in the event that a gap blocks the windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures the gap between the frame and sash is typically larger around 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 measuring and cutting the material.

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

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, faulty weights or rotten frames are all causes of problems. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window as good, if not better than its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also includes 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). It's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash is required it can be constructed using the same design to match your old frame. This will help preserve the heritage style of your property. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows require planning permission.

Before putting the new window in It is recommended to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, Windows repair the new sash will not fit properly into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each option will require a different degree and level of expertise. For instance, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best choice. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be remedied by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to remove the window frame in order to fix the issues. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

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 stop heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to add an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These problems can lead to increased energy bills and damage to 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 double glazed windows a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to the professionals. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.