Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with many issues that include rattles and draughts. They may also be poorly insulation. A little attention can often restore them to their original performance.

First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a container with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, however they require care. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage inside a Sash.

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

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents the windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option however it has a tendency to tear and affect the appearance of a window.

When replacing sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. 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 down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners that will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring 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 to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, make sure you use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful, historical feature of many homes. They are beautiful but they can also be prone to problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. If you are experiencing any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by rot. 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.

If a replacement sash required, it can be made using the same design to match the frame you have. This will help preserve read more the traditional style of your home. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Before putting the new window on, it's best 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 into the window frame slots.

It is important to decide if you want to repair or replace the damaged window, since each option will require a different degree and cost of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is an option. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill is rotting and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the extent of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A weak seal can be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to fix common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Lastly take the sashweights out of the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a crucial one for homeowners. While modern replacements provide many advantages but the original features of a home that was built earlier provide character and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can reduce energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as they require extensive dismantling. But, with the right tools and know-how it's possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is secured by a cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.