Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly insulated. A little bit of care can often restore them to a top level of performance.

First, cut off the seal with a utility knife. Then remove the staff bead and pull out the upper sash by removing cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage inside a sash.

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

If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. 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 installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners, which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

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

A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will be rusty. Also, make sure to use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as well as broken glazing bars, faulty weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. When these problems occur it's time for an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window as good, if not better than the original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the rattling.

If a new sash is required the frame can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in place It is recommended to compare its metal tabs to those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

If a window has been damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. For example when a sash window has a significant piece of glass missing, replacement is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these issues. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace the window. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and Sash Windows Repair have many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to take apart the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners decide to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat from the window. It is also possible to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty using a heat gun, and scrape it off with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can help reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to professionals. But, with the right tools and experience, 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. Finally, pull out the sash window repair at the bottom. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and tie 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. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, Sash Windows Repair remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and held by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint from the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.