Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and can be subject to issues such as 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.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it, and fitting mold growth. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary in the event that a gap blocks the windows from closing and opening easily. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of a window.

When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.

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

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass will be rusty. Also, make sure to use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning historical feature in many homes. They are beautiful but they can also be susceptible to problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, defective frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time for repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it will bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also includes re-painting the timber frame 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). In addition, it is recommended to fit brush pile weather strips in order to minimize the rattling and increase insulation.

If a replacement sash is required It can be made with the same design to match your old frame. This will maintain the heritage style of your home. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Before you put the new window on before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or door repair a damaged window, as each will require a different degree and amount of expertise. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass that is missing, then a replacement will be the best choice. However when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or fitting rattles. Broken glass may also occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary double glazing repairs.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue typically occurs in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to fix a poor seal with a few simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and have many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems like broken panes or snapped sash cables. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. 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 could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping from the window. It may also be beneficial to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Store the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair windows with sash is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features in an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Inspecting them regularly can reduce energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the window, so it's best left to a professional. However, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports 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 in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with a utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.