Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require care. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in the sash.

A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can result in water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be closed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash as well as the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. 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 extra 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 make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning and historic feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same standard in its original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as re-glazing 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strips to lessen rattling and improve insulation.

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

Before putting the new window in place before installing it, make sure you compare its metal tabs to those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the double glazed window repairs frame.

If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a significant piece of glass missing then a replacement will be the best option. However in the event that the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue typically occurs in the sash itself and can usually be solved without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can be fixed with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves taking apart the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners would want to take on themselves. Because of this, many opt to hire an expert.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss out of the window. It may also be beneficial to put in a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace the sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier add authenticity and value to the property and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

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

Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away inside a cavity and supported by cords. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and then sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with an utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk puncturing the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.