Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently insulated. A little bit of care 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. Store the hardware in a container with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to problems like wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is common. This can result in the leaking of moisture and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed to 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 tear, and can detract from the appearance of a window.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners, which will ensure the best fit and function of the upvc window repairs.

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

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

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, faulty weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but can restore the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. It also involves 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 install brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If you require a new sash, it can be made from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep your property's heritage style. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

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

When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between replacement or repair, because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and price. For example the case of a sash windows that has a significant piece of glass missing, replacement is the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues usually point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Think about the scope of the issue. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. Foggy glass for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the window frame in order to fix these problems. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair a sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits but the original features of an older house give personality and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can help lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the window frame and is best left to the professionals. But, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead, fix then take the sash off the bottom. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and held by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and strip any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and re-attach the sash pulley axles.