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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little effort, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are gorgeous in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them or repairing them, or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in a sash.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be necessary when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When replacing sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up 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 transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught proofed with a strip of self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, make sure to use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could create a mess. When these problems occur it's time for an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself, however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also involves re-painting the frame of timber and re-glazing with traditional glass window repair (over here). 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). Finally, it's recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises, it can be made using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the window frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be an option. However when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has begun decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good shape, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only logical solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even appropriate to replace windows. A foggy glass problem for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows feature a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat from the window. It may also be beneficial to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure place. The heat gun will soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and install the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the window frame, so it's best left to the professionals. 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 begins by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or glass window Repair lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity and is supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. Reattach the stops when 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, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.