Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can be prone to a variety of issues, including draughts rattles and poor insulation. With a little attention they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, cut off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has the label.

Sealing

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

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing.

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

If a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and 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 replacing sash runners It is crucial to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and better operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, and with an additional inch to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can rust. Also, make sure you use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning historical feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, but it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than the original condition. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.

If a new sash is needed it can be constructed with the same design to match your old frame. This will preserve the heritage style of your house. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different shapes the new sash may not fit inside the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each will require a different level and amount of knowledge. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it is the better option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It might not be necessary or even necessary to replace a window. For example, a foggy glass issue typically occurs in the sash itself and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A weak seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something most homeowners would want to tackle themselves. For these reasons, many choose to work with an expert.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping through the window. It may also be beneficial to put in a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair timber windows, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass window repair). Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Store the equipment in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing a sash window is a crucial one for homeowners. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these issues can lead to higher costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional, Sash Windows Repair as they require extensive removal. 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 that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash to reveal the weight balancing, which is a large iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and secured by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.