Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have a variety of problems, including draughts and rattles. They may also be inefficiently insulation. With a little attention they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop using the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings but they require maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot, and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in a Sash.

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

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option, but it can tear, and can detract from the appearance of windows.

It is crucial to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when cutting and measuring 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 to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful historical feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. 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 experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, Sash Windows Repair but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. 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 install brush pile weather strip to reduce rattling.

If a new sash is required, Sash Windows Repair it can be made using the same style to match your old frame. This will preserve the style and character of your house. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows require planning permission.

Before putting the new window in before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the window repair frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair timber windows or replacement, since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and expense. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. However in the event that the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. A leaky seal can be fixed with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues like broken panes or sash cables that have snapped. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame to repair these issues. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with an expert.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or update them to meet modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat out of the window. You can also install an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and stop the window from shaking.

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism that slides can become dislodged or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window with sash to a specialist, as they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and skills it's possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void, hit it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.