Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be prone to a variety of issues, including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little care can often restore them to a top level of performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag with the label.

Sealing

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

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products and secondary double glazing window repairs.

A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting, and mold growth. The gap can be closed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or sash windows Repair foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it has a tendency to tear, and can affect the appearance of a window.

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

In older structures the gap between the frame and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, and with an additional inch on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time for door repairs near me or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash but it will restore the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. 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 fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If you require a new sash it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash before installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each option will require a different degree and amount of expertise. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is rotting and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of a issue, since it might not be feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a poor seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are a complicated design that has many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. This is why many choose to work with an expert.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting 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). Then, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the equipment in a secure location. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to 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 even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the window frame and should be left to professionals. With the right tools and skills it is possible for you to door repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity and is secured by cords. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and then sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with a utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the balancing weight.

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