Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have many issues such as rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little care they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

First, remove the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings, however they require maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like wet rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Different methods can be employed to reduce air leaks in a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is prone to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fit and better operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash and frame at the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed to align with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can get rusty. Also, use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as well as broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames are all causes of problems. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as re-glazing using traditional glass window repair. 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed from similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior double glazed Windows repairs to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit inside the slots of the window frame.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each will require a different degree and cost of expertise. For example, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. But there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a problem, as it may not be feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows feature a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or update them to meet modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping from the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from squealing.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it off with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window repairman, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair double glazing windows (dacian.cc)

The choice of replacing or repairing a sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features in an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair upvc windows than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to a professional. But, with the right tools and knowledge it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and secured by cords. To keep the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the beads that separate if required. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the sash pulley axles.