Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. With a little effort, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop using a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.

It is essential to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners that will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to consider this when measuring and cutting material.

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

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning and historic feature of many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be prone to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also includes re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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). Finally, it's recommended to install brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If a new sash is needed It can be made with the same design to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the style and character of your house. This is especially 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 prior to installing it (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may not fit in the window frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and expense. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be an option. However in the event that the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has begun damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, such as installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the extent of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass, for example, is usually caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature many moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the double glazed window repairs frame to fix these problems. This is why many choose to work with an expert.

A professional can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair the sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits however, the original features of an older home provide authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window sash to a professional since it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart starts with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides, and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and secured by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the weight that is balancing.

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