Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a bag with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and can be subject to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside the shutter.

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

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be necessary when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These strips of bronze are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it has a tendency to rip, and it can detract from the appearance of a window.

When installing replacement runners for sash It is crucial to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements 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 incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings the gap between sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning and historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, stickiness or draughts. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself but it can restore the look and function of your sash window as good if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box with traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, Sash Windows Repair 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required, it can be made using the same style to match your old frame. This will maintain the style and character of your home. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash before installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the window repair near frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between replacement or repair, since each kind of repair will involve a different level of expertise and cost. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is the better option. But, if the glass is damaged in a tiny 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 order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a issue, as it may not be feasible to replace a complete window. A glass that is foggy, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a poor seal with a few simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from squealing.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Then, remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. The heat gun will soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair windows with sash is a crucial one for the homeowner. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist because it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and skills, it is possible for you to repair the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Then, pull out the chains or cords 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. Take out the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and anchored by a rope. To stop the sash 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 cords and sash bars, and remove any paint from the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.