15 Reasons You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Sash Windows Repair

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to a high level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to decrease 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 primary cause of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside the sash.

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

If a gap is hindering the windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to stop sideways rattling. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning and historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will restore the appearance and function to the same standard in its original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. It also involves 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). Finally, it's recommended to install brush pile weather strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.

If a replacement sash is required, it can be made using the same style to match your existing frame. This will preserve the style and character of your home. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each will require a different degree and cost of knowledge. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues often suggest replacement as the only logical solution. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, as it may not be feasible to replace a complete window. Foggy glass, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to fix common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. Many homeowners decide to engage a professional for these reasons.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat loss out of the window glass repair near me. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Place the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is a major one for homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages but the original features of a home that was built earlier give personality and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals because it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the sash cords. Then using a utility knife take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, Sash Windows Repair then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and re-install the sash pulley axles.