Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little bit of care can often bring them back 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 out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a container with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and Repairs draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to minimize these issues and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage within the Sash.

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

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is prone to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to determine the size of the window opening before installing new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.

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

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an extra inch on each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can be rusty. Also, make sure to use high-quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time for repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not better than the original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is 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 strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.

If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the heritage style of your house. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the upvc window repair frame slots.

When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between replacement or repair, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and cost. For example when a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. However, there are ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the issue. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. A glass that is foggy for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners choose 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 the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat loss through the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the upvc window repair stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe position. The heat gun will soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. 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. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to professionals. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity, and supported by a cord. To stop the sash falling into the void, pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint off 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 inserting the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.