Why We Are In Love With Sash Windows Repair (And You Should Also!)

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

First, take off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or 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. The gap can be closed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it has a tendency to rip, and it can detract from the appearance of a window.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and frame on the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an additional inch on each side to allow movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can cause a lot of trouble. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. It also involves 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). It's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair the damaged local window repair, since each option will require a different degree and level of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it is the better option. But in the event that the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other ways to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the severity of the issue, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

A specialist can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from rattling.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Place the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a knife for Sash windows Repair putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is crucial for homeowners to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits however, the original features of an older house give character and value to the home and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to the professionals. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings that are 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 tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

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