Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a top level of performance.

First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, double glazed window repairs and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

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

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to install new sash runners or spring bronze. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it can tear and affect the appearance of windows.

It is important to determine the size of the double glazed window repairs opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom 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 buildings the gap between the frames and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an extra inch on each side to allow for movement. It 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. Use stainless steel screws since brass may get rusty. Also, make sure to use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash window repairs is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as 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 put in brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattle and increase insulation.

If a new sash is required the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit in the slots of the window frame.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair the damaged window, since each will require a different degree and level of knowledge. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be an alternative. However in the event that the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only logical solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and Double Glazed Window Repairs draughtproofing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It may not be necessary or suitable to replace the window. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs in the sash itself and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows feature a complicated design that has many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. The majority of homeowners don't want disassemble the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners opt to work with a professional due to these reasons.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It may also be beneficial to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Store the equipment in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and put back the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits but the original features of a home that was built earlier give personality and value to the property and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can help reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These problems can result in increased costs for 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 dismantling of the window frame and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and skills, it is possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and supported by a cord. 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 rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops with a utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and then re-attach the sash pulley axles.