The Advanced Guide To Sash Windows Repair

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly insulated. With a little attention they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

First, cut off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can be used to limit 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 frequent. This could cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood and growth of mold. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be necessary when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it tends to rip and may alter the look of your window.

It is essential to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash and frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, Sash Windows Repair rattling or leaking are common issues. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash double glazed window repairs as good, if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-painting the frame of timber 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If a new sash is required, it can be made from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes 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 they're different sizes the new sash may not fit into the window frame slots.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different level and cost of expertise. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be an option. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is damaged, a repair would be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the severity of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by a few easy fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows feature a complicated design with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common issues like broken panes or snapped sash cables. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to take on themselves. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

A specialist can help restore sash windows to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping through the window. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe location. The heat gun will soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a putty blade. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a major one for homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages, the original features of a home that was built earlier give character and value to the property and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window sash to a professional because it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and held by a cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and then sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.