Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues such as rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently insulation. With a little effort they can be repaired to a high level of performance.

First, cut off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a container with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require regular maintenance. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. There are a variety of methods to stop air leaks from a sash window, including sealing beads, specialist 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 the sill and the sash. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. The gap can be closed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older buildings the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account when cutting and measuring material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws, because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant, historic 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 weights that are not working properly can cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time for conservatory repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, but can restore your sash's look and function to the same standard in its original condition. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is needed, it can be made with the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the heritage style of your house. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash before installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash won't fit correctly into the window frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each option will require a different level and cost of expertise. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best option. However in the event that the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun decaying, a double glaze repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, such as installing draughtproofing and secondary double glazing windows repairs.

It is important to determine the severity of the problem, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem in the sash itself and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners would want to take on themselves. Because of this, many opt to hire a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window glass repair near me from rattling.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits but the original features of an older home add authenticity and value to the home 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 vulnerable to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional since it requires a lot of removal. However, with the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old sash windows 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 bottom sash. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's time to take off the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and secured by cords. To stop the sash falling into the void, make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.