Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to their original performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage in a sash.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood, and mold growth. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be necessary in the event that a gap blocks the windows from opening and shutting easily. These strips of bronze are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your upvc window repair.

When replacing sash runners It is crucial to take full measurements of the window repair near me opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash 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 perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures, there is a wider gap between the sash and frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.

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

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful and historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash, but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is 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 put in brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash 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 important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window on, it's best to 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 important to decide if you want to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different degree and cost of expertise. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it would be the better option. But, if the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace the window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and have many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame in order to fix the issues. This is why many homeowners 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 can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping out of the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Place the equipment in a secure location. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and install the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide character and value to the property and are generally less expensive to fix 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 can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could become sloppy or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional, as it requires extensive dismantling. But, with the right tools and know-how, it is possible to repair old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the weight balancing, which is a heavy iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and held by rope. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and remove any paint from the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

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