Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with a variety of problems that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly constructed to be insulated. With a little care, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and can be subject to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective method to minimize these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage within the 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 result in moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing the windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When replacing sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older buildings the gap between the sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to consider this when measuring and cutting material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. It is also essential 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 susceptible to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. Rotting frames and meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, damaged frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. When these problems occur 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 as its original state. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is the re-glazing process 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). In addition, it is recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If you require a new sash it can be constructed using similar designs to the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window on It is recommended to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair the damaged window, since each option will require a different level and cost of knowledge. For instance when a sash repairing window has a large chunk of glass missing then a replacement will be the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. But there are ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It may not be necessary or necessary to replace a window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues like broken panes or snapped sash cable. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. This is why many opt to hire a specialist.

A specialist can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat out of the window. You can also install an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and stop the window from squealing.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Store the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is essential for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair timber windows or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements can provide a host of benefits but the original features of an older home provide personality and value to the property and are often cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can help lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window sash to a professional since they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and skills, it is possible for you to repair the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and 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 attached. It's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity and is secured by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then using a utility knife take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.