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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have various issues that include rattles and draughts. They may also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little care they can be repaired to their original performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they require maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage in the shutter.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking in the wood, rotting and the growth of mould. Seal the gap with silicone, Sash Windows Repair polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required when a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.

In older structures, the gap between sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is crucial to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

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

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. It also involves 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 rattling and improve insulation.

If you require a new sash it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Check the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the slots of the window frame.

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each option will require a different level and cost of expertise. For instance when a sash window repair near has a significant piece of glass missing then replacement is the best option. But when the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. But there are ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

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 in the sash itself and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat through the window. It is also possible to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a crucial one for the homeowner. Modern replacements offer many advantages, Sash Windows Repair but the original features in an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to the professionals. But, with the right tools and know-how it's possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart begins 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. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. 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, and then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.