Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have a variety of problems, including draughts and rattles. They could also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. A little attention can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, remove the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. Keep the hardware in a bag that has an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside the Sash.

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

If a gap is hindering the windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to stop sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is recommended 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 later be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older buildings 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-strip, but it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and Window replacement cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an extra inch each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass may be rusty. Also, make sure you use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window as good, if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is needed, it can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the heritage style of your home. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window on, it's best to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each will require a different level and amount of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be the better alternative. However in the event that the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good shape, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary double glazing repair and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or necessary to replace windows. For instance, a foggy glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be corrected by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that 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 modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping through the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Place the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older house can add the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Inspecting them regularly can lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to 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 become draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to professionals. However, with the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and strip any paint from the sash stops using an utility knife. After the sashes have been put returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.