Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles, and poor insulation. With a little attention they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has the label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they require maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can cause the leaking of moisture and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. 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 weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option however it is prone to tear and affect the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended 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 then be transferred to new runners that will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

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

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an extra inch to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws, because brass is prone to rust, and high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time for repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. It also involves painting the frame of timber 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). Finally, healthndream.com it's recommended to put in brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattle and increase insulation.

If you require a new sash, it can be made using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is especially important for Repairmywindowsanddoors.co.Uk listed properties where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit properly into the window frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it's essential to choose between replacement or repair, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and price. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be an alternative. However in the event that the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, however it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It may not be necessary or even necessary to replace the window. A foggy glass problem for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and have many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame to repair these issues. Many homeowners decide 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 could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair take out the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for homeowners to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits however, the original features of an older house provide personality and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation. These issues can lead to higher energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The mechanism that slides can become dislodged or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to repair an the old sash window replacement yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at 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 attached weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and held by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and remove any paint from the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.