Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little bit of care can often bring them back to their original performance.

First, take off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Then remove the staff bead and remove the upper sash, taking off cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require maintenance and could be susceptible to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. Repair, sealing, window Repairs or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to reduce air leaks in a sash Window Repairs, including sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.

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

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be required when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it has a tendency to tear, and can make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When replacing sash runners it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings, the gap between frame and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration 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 trimmed squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful, historic feature of many homes. They are beautiful but they can also be susceptible to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as and broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash, but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 put in brush pile weather strip to prevent the 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 heritage style of your home. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each choice will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then a replacement will be the best choice. However when the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these issues. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can be fixed by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues like broken panes or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older home can provide character and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the upvc window repair and should be left to the professionals. But, with the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and secured by cords. To keep the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint off the sash stops using an utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk puncturing the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.