Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly insulated. A little attention can often bring them back to a top level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings but they do need maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can result in the leaking of moisture and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace 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 are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash and frame around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash and with an inch more on each side to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to match the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Common problems include rattling, stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as along with broken double glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it can restore the look and function of your sash window to the same or better than its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the rattling.

If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will maintain the traditional style of your home. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows require planning permission.

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

If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, since each kind of repair will involve a different level of expertise and expense. If a large part of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is the better option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these problems. There are other ways to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. This includes installing secondary double glazing and draught-proofing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It might not be necessary or necessary to replace a window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be remedied 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 many moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a crucial one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, UPVC repair and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. But, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the weight balancing, which is a large iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and held by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint off the sash stops with a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the sash pulley axles.