Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash by removing chains or cords and storing the equipment in a bag labeled.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary double glazing repair can all be used to reduce the air leakage within the Sash.

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

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to install new sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure 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 ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

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

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch more on each side to allow movement. It should be cut square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, companies and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful but they can also be susceptible to issues. Common issues include rattling draughts or sticking. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but can bring back the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is 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 put in brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash is required, it can be made using the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the traditional style of your house. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window on before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different sizes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the window frame.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different level and amount of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be a better option. If the glass is only damaged in a small region or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. But there are ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace the window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame in order to fix these problems. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. You can also add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Store the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair a sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages, the original features of an older home provide character and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could become sloppy or draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to the professionals. But, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides, and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and supported by an elastic 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 the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords of the sash. Then using a utility knife take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops once 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 on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and then re-attach the sash pulley axles.