Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows in sash is a great way to reduce these problems and improve the efficiency of energy.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage in the Sash.

A common issue 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 cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening without a hitch, it might be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of windows.

It is crucial to measure the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash and frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring material.

A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an additional inch to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass may be rusty. Also, use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken double glazing Streatham bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time for an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash but it will restore the appearance and function to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and Double glazing Repairs Grays repairing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-painting the frame of timber and re-double glazing repairs Grays 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 fit brush pile weather strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different level and amount of knowledge. If a large portion of the glass in the sash is missing then replacing it will be an alternative. However, if the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill is damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good shape, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or even appropriate to replace a window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are a complicated 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. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame to repair these issues. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from squealing.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Lastly take the sashweights out of the bottom weight cavity. Place the hardware in a safe place. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape can lower energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can result in increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. With the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and held by a cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the cords for the sash. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.