Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

First, cut 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. The hardware should be stored in a container with an identification label.

Sealing

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

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside a sash.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can cause water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze might be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it is prone to tear and make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended to measure 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 later be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures the gap between the frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an extra inch on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. Rotting frames and meeting rails as and broken glazing bars, damaged frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but can bring back the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. It also includes re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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 install brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required It can be made using the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your home. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in place It is recommended to examine its metal tabs with the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.

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 expense. If a large part of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it would be an alternative. But when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these issues. But there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of a issue, since it might not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window repair. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame to repair these issues. Because of this, many opt to hire an expert.

A professional can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and Sash Windows Repair fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to add an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and put back the upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for homeowners to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can reduce the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or even draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional because it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and skills it's possible for you to repair the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings behind the lower upvc window repairs sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive lead or Sash Windows Repair iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords and remove any paint off the sash stops with a utility knife. After the sashes have been put returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.