Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They may also be inefficiently insulated. With a little effort they can be repaired to a high level of performance.

First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash by removing chains or cords, and then storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are gorgeous in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Different methods can be employed to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.

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

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it is prone to tear, and can detract from the appearance of a window.

It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.

In older structures the gap between sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash, with an additional inch on each side for movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, make sure to use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the rattling.

If a new sash is required the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and price. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be an alternative. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, such as installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the extent of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. Foggy glass, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. This is why many opt to hire an expert.

A specialist can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat out of the double glazed window repairs. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing a sash window is a crucial one for Sash Windows Repair the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits but the original features of an older house add character and value to the property and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can help lower the cost of energy. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash windows repair.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could become dislodged or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a sash windows to professionals because they require extensive removal. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and strip any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.