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, remove the seal of paint from the window stop with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can cause water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze may be necessary in the event that a gap blocks the windows from opening and shutting easily. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option, but it has a tendency to rip, and it can detract from the appearance of windows.

When replacing sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash and with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful and historic feature of many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If you are experiencing any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, but it can restore the look and function of your sash window to the same or superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is 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 is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the rattling.

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

Before you put the new window in, it's best to compare its metal tabs to those on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes the new sash may not fit into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to replace or Repair Doors the damaged window, since each choice will require a different level and cost of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be an option. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill is rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the extent of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. A glass that is foggy, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame in order to fix these problems. This is why many homeowners choose to work with an expert.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to stop 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 begin a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace the sash window is a major one for homeowners. Although modern replacements offer many advantages but the original features of an older home give authenticity and value to the property and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these issues can lead to higher cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to a professional. With the right tools and skills it is possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is secured by an elastic cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords for the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the balancing weight.

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