Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop using the knife of a utility. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash by removing cords or chains and storing hardware in a bag marked.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they require maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within the sash window replacement, such as sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can lead to the leaking of moisture and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents the windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

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

A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash, and with an extra inch to allow movement. It should be cut square and placed so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, make sure to use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive, Window Doctor Near Me historical feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. If you experience any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window as good if not better than the original condition. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is 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 is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises, it can be made from similar designs to the old frame and maintain your property's heritage style. This is particularly important for listed properties where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit in the window doctor frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each option will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a large piece of glass missing, replacing it is the best option. However when the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It might not be necessary or even suitable to replace a window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive 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 remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. This is why many opt to hire an expert.

A specialist can help restore windows made of sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To start a repair project, remove the window Doctor near me stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and remove them. Store the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it off with a knife for window Doctor near Me putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and put back the upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for homeowners to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages, the original features of an older home give personality and value to the property and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals since it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a concealed cavity and secured by a rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.