Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little attention they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, remove 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 bag with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage within a sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it has a tendency to rip, and it can detract from the appearance of a window.

It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is best to measure 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 the best fit and function of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential 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 added on each side to allow movement. It should be cut square and positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be prone to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If you are experiencing any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself, however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to the same or superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing double glazed windows any damage caused by rot. 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If a new sash is needed It can be made using the same design to match your old frame. This will preserve the style and character of your property. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each option will require a different level and level of expertise. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be the better option. However, if the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill is damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the severity of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. It is often possible to repair a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and fitting 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, Sash Windows Repair remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Then, remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing a sash window is an important one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features of an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to 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 draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to the professionals. With the right tools and Sash Windows Repair experience it is possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. 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 weights that are attached. The next step is to take out the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is supported by a cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords for the sash. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk puncturing the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.