Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have a variety of problems that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly insulated. With a little care they can be restored to their original performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require maintenance and could be susceptible to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside a sash.

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

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may 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 to stop sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it is prone to rip, and it can affect the appearance of windows.

It is important to measure the entire window opening before installing new sash runners. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can then 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 is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash, with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stickiness or draughts. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also includes re-painting the timber frame 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 reduce the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required, it can be made with the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the heritage style of your house. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes the new sash may 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 degree of expertise and cost. If a large portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is an alternative. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary double glazing repairs, check out this blog post via Imoodle, and draught-proofing.

Consider the extent of the issue. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace a window. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole 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 are a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want disassemble the window frame to repair these issues. For these reasons, many choose to work with a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat escaping out of the window. It is also possible to add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from rattling.

To begin a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Store the hardware in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for homeowners to decide whether to repair or double Glazing Repairs replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older house can add the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional because it requires a lot of dismantling. But, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides and knot the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the weight balancing, which is a large iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint off the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that 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 install the sash pulleys.