Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have various issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside the Sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and growth of mold. The gap can be closed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening easily. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can tear, and can make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings the gap between the frames 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 take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, with an additional inch each side to allow to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality polyurethane or Window Repairs Beaconsfield silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning, historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. If you experience any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level in its original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by the 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 minimize rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window on, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.

If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and cost. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. However in the event that the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has been decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of the issue, since it might not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. A glass that is foggy, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A weak 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 a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common issues such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners opt to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping through the window. It may also be beneficial to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, attach 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 a sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features of an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These problems can result in increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals since it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and skills it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower Window repairs Beaconsfield sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the attached weights. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the double glazing repair St neots bars and sash cords. Then using a utility knife take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, window repairs Beaconsfield then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.