Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little effort they can be repaired to their original performance.

First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can result in moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to install new sash runners or Sash Windows Repair spring bronze. These strips of bronze are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

It is essential to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures, there is a wider gap between the sash and frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive V-strip, but it is important to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, and with an extra inch each side to allow to allow for movement. It should be cut square and placed so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass may get rusty. Also, make sure you use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that meet, as well as broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames are all causes of problems. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also includes re-painting the frame of timber and re-glazing with 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 put in brush pile weather strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises, it can be made from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each option will require a different level and cost of knowledge. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good condition, Sash Windows Repair the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. There are other methods to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It might 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 resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners want to take on themselves. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

A specialist can help restore sash windows to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through 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 that are in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair timber windows their sash windows. While modern replacements provide many advantages, the original features of an older house provide character and value to the property and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of a sash windows to professionals since they require extensive dismantling. But, with the right tools and know-how, it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. 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 painted-covered hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the weight balancing, which is a heavy iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by rope. To stop the sash falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.