So You've Bought Sash Windows Repair ... Now What?

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little attention they can be repaired to their original performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead and remove the upper sash, taking off chains or cords, and then storing the hardware in a bag marked.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like wet rot, cracked putty and drafts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also lead to rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside the sash.

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

If a gap is preventing the windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option however it is prone to tear, and can affect the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended 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 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 frame around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, and with an extra inch each side to allow to allow for movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is glazing using traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and Sash Windows Repair replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of glass). It is also recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If you require a new sash the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows need planning permission.

Before putting the new window on, it's best to examine its metal tabs with the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the slots of the window frame.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair the damaged window, since each will require a different degree and cost of expertise. For instance when a sash window has a significant piece of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. 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.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace a window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original splendor or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss from the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Store the equipment in a secure location. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall 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 can provide many advantages but the original features of an older home add personality and value to the property and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or even draughty. Repairing a sash window repair requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and is best left to a professional. With the right tools and experience it's possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

The process of bringing the window apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and knot the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's time to take off the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and secured by cords. To stop the sash falling into the void, make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

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

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.