Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They may also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. A little bit of care can often restore them to a top level of performance.

First, take off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require care. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

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

A common problem is a gap 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, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. The gap can be closed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be required in the event that a gap blocks windows from opening and shutting easily. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option however it has a tendency to rip, and it can affect the appearance of a window.

It is important to determine the size of the window opening before installing new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame at 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 account when measuring and cutting material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash and with an inch added on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut square and placed in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass will get rusty. Also, use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to the same or better than its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as re-glazing using 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made using the same design to match your old frame. This will help preserve the traditional style of your property. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window in before installing it, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit inside the slots of the window frame.

When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between repair or replacement since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and price. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be the better option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is rotting, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only logical solution. But there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the issue. It may not be necessary or suitable to replace the upvc window repairs. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem in the sash itself and is typically a solution without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and [Redirect-Java] replacing it.

Sash windows feature a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame to fix these problems. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. It can also be helpful to put in a brush pile strip to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is essential for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits, the original features of an older home add authenticity and value to the property and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can also lower the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals since it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and experience, it is possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a large iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then, using 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 inserting the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.