Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have a variety of problems such as rattles and draughts. They may also be poorly insulation. A little care can often restore them to their original performance.

First, remove the seal on the paint of the window stop using the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Keep the hardware in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are gorgeous in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or cheaper bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is more likely to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the meeting rail 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 structures the gap between sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when cutting and measuring material.

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, with an additional inch to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's 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. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. It also includes re-painting the timber frame and re-glazing 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to prevent rattling.

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

Before putting the new window replacement on, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit 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 require a different level of expertise and expense. If a large part of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is the better alternative. But, if the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the extent of a issue, since it might not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can be fixed by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners opt to work with a professional due to these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping out of the window. It may also be beneficial to add an extra strip of brush pile 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). Next, remove the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Store the hardware in a safe place. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide character and value to the home and are often cheaper to fix than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.

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

Getting the window to come apart starts by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large lead or double iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. After the sashes have been put back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent cutting the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.