Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have a variety of problems that include rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly insulated. With a little effort they can be restored to their original performance.

First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop with a utility knife. Then remove the staff bead, then remove the upper sash and remove the cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot, and drafts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize 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 water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be closed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option however it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is crucial to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut square and placed in a way that the ends are aligned 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 a beautiful historical feature in many homes. These windows are beautiful, but they can be prone to problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. If you encounter any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window as good if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is the re-glazing process 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 window repair). It's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required it can be constructed using the same style to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the style and character of your house. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different sizes, the new sash will not fit into the window frame slots.

When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and expense. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then replacing it is the best choice. However when the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

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

Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or necessary to replace the window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues such as broken panes, or Sash Windows Repair snapped sash cables. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Lastly take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Store the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The decision to repair timber windows or replace the sash window is a major one for homeowners. While modern replacements provide numerous benefits however, the original features of an older house provide character and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to a professional. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

The process of bringing the window apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. The next step is to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and secured by cords. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the weight that is balancing.

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