Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. With a little attention they can be restored to their original performance.

First, knock off the seal of paint from the window repairs Stevenage stop with an utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead, then take the upper sash out, taking off chains or double Glazing Repair Stanmore cords, and then storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like wet rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in the sash.

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

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be necessary in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening easily. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash 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 line of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures, the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash, and with an extra inch 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 essential to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be prone to problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, faulty weights or rotten frames can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 install brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows require planning permission.

Before you put the new window on before installing it, make sure you examine its metal tabs with those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the window frame.

If a window is damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and expense. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be a better alternative. However when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause problems such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or even appropriate to replace windows. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. A leaky seal can be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. 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 current energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary Double glazing repair Stanmore, which will stop heat out of the window. It may also be beneficial to add a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a safe place. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older home can add the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the window frame and is best left to the professionals. However, with the right tools and experience it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity and is supported by a cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the double glazing repairs Harrow bars and the cords for the sash. Then employing a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. After the sashes have been put back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk damaging the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, Double Glazing repair Stanmore and then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.