Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of problems including draughts, rattles, and poor insulation. With a little attention they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a bag marked.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require care. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the main source of drafts. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. 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 that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or 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 required in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

It is crucial to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down 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 and frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.

A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash, and with an additional inch each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be prone to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, but can restore your sash's look and function to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 in order to minimize rattling and improve insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is particularly important for listed properties where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may not fit into the slots of the window frame.

When a window is damaged it's essential to choose between repair or replacement because each type of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be a better option. But, if the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace a window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like broken panes or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to remove the window frame to repair these issues. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat out of the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Store the hardware in a safe location. Use a heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for the homeowner to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older home can provide the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can help lower the cost of energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to the professionals. With the right tools and skills, it is possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. 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 weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach upvc repairs the sash pulleys.