Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They might also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little attention can often bring them back to their original performance.
First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a bag with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty and draughts. window repair is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing may all be used to minimize the air leakage in the sash.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. 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 a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting easily. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it can rip, and it can affect the appearance of a window.
It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners, which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older buildings the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If you encounter any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. It also involves re-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). It is also recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.
If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for listed properties where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit properly into the window frame slots.
If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and expense. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be the better alternative. But, if the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun damaged, a repair would 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 result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is important to determine the severity of a issue, since it might not be feasible to replace a complete window. A foggy glass problem 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 ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are quite complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to take on themselves. This is why many choose to work with a specialist.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
The choice to replace or repair a sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits, the original features of an older home give authenticity and value to the property and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to the professionals. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to repair an 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, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. The next step is to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed inside a hidden compartment and held by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. After the sashes have been put returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk damaging the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.