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 restore them to their original performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings but they require maintenance and can be subject to problems like wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing may be used to limit the air leakage inside the Sash.

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 into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and may alter the look of your window.

It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fit and better operation of the window.

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

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow movement. It should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as and broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. It also involves 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 put in brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will preserve the style and character of your home. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each will require a different degree and amount of knowledge. For example when a sash window has a significant piece of glass that is missing, then a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. There are other ways to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. A glass that is foggy, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are quite complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame to fix these problems. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

A specialist can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, take off the window repairs near me stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and install the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is an important one for homeowners. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Inspecting them regularly can also lower energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can result in increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional since they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience it's possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and secured by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint from the sash stops with a utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.