Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have various issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly constructed to be insulated. With a little attention, they can be restored to their original performance.

First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead, then take the upper sash out, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a bag marked.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they require maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and Sash Windows repair draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing may be used to limit the air leakage in the shutter.

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

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option but it is prone to rip, and it can detract from the appearance of windows.

When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.

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

A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash, with an additional inch each side to allow to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will get rusty. Also, make sure you use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Common issues include rattling stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash, however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also includes re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing with 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). Finally, it's recommended to put in brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattling and improve insulation.

If a replacement sash is needed It can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the style and character of your home. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as 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 the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the local window repair frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each will require a different level and cost of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be an alternative. However when the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues usually suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It's important to consider the severity of a issue, since it might not be feasible to replace a complete double glazed window repair. For instance, a foggy glass issue typically occurs within the sash and is typically a solution without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle on their own. For these reasons, many choose to work with a professional.

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 fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and Sash Windows Repair pull out the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a secure position. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals because it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and knot the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's time to take off the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and anchored by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.