Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, cut 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. Store the hardware in a container with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also lead to rattling and reduced sound-proofing. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is frequent. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to install new sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing an alternative sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail of the meeting and Double glazing repairs from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can then 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 and frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, and with an additional inch on each side for movement. It should be trimmed squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful historical feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as 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 is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises, Repair my windows and doors it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes to windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in place It is recommended to check the metal tabs against the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may not fit into the window frame slots.

When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and price. If a large portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is an alternative. However when the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Consider the extent of the issue. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace a window. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to take on themselves. Because of this, many opt to hire an expert.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping from the window. It is also possible to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a Repair My Windows And Doors, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits, the original features of an older home give character and value to the home and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can help reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window with sash to a specialist since they require extensive removal. With the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Making the window come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and supported by a cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint off the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.