Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little bit of care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to issues such as cracked putty, wet rot, and drafts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them or repairing them, or sealing them.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in a sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. The gap can be filled by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be required if a gap prevents windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it is prone to tear, and can make a difference to the appearance of a window.

It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window replacement opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects them 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 structures, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to consider this when cutting and measuring material.

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

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, damaged weights or rotten frames can cause issues. If you are experiencing any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window as good if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves re-painting the frame of timber and re-glazing 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 minimize the rattling.

If a new sash is required it can be constructed from similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows need planning permission.

Before putting the new window in place It is recommended to compare its metal tabs to those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.

When a window is damaged it's essential to choose between repair or replacement because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and price. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be better.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the severity of the problem, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. A glass that is foggy, for example, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can be fixed by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame in order to fix these problems. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.

A professional can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from squealing.

To begin the repair, remove the Window Doctor stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old filler, window doctor hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is crucial 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 in an older home can add the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the window frame and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to start:

The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and held by an elastic cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, Window doctor and then reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.