Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They might also be poorly insulated. With a little attention they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, remove the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a container with a label.

Sealing

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

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in the sash window repairs, such as sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, which can cause rotting, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, but it is prone to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

In older structures, the gap between frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash, with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to make use of stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful historical feature in many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window the same or Upvc window repairs near Me better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows need planning permission.

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

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each choice will require a different degree and cost of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be a better option. However, if the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, since it might not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Resolving these issues often requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something most homeowners want to tackle themselves. Many homeowners opt to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. It can also be helpful to put in a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair take out the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Lastly take the sashweights out of the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler 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 choice of replacing or repairing a sash window is an important one for homeowners. Although modern replacements offer many advantages but the original features of an older home provide personality and value to the property and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation. These problems can result in increased cost of energy and 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 draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the window frame and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and knowledge it's possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and knot the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. Now it's time to take out 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 heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is secured by a cord. To stop the sash falling into the void, hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and the cords for the sash. Then, fitting using a utility blade 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 not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.