Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have various issues that include rattles and draughts. They may also be poorly insulation. With a little effort they can be repaired to their original performance.

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

Sealing

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

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, sash windows repair and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage within the sash.

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

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

It is essential to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash and with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass will get rusty. Also, make sure to use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames are all causes of problems. If these issues occur, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as 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 reduce the rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve your property's heritage style. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in place, it's best to examine its metal tabs with those on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the window frame slots.

When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and cost. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be the better option. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, such as installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the severity of the issue, since it might not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. Foggy glass, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. The majority of homeowners don't want disassemble the window frame in order to fix the issues. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat from the window. It may also be beneficial to add a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a crucial one for homeowners. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window repairs with sash to a specialist because they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience, it is possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the weight balancing, which is a large iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the parting beads if needed. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and re-attach the sash pulley axles.