20 Things You Should Know About Sash Windows Repair

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

First, remove the seal of paint from the window stop with a utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash and remove the chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like wet rot, cracked putty and drafts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside the shutter.

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

If a gap in the window is preventing windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.

It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing new sash runners. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

In older buildings the gap between the sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip must be cut to the length of the sash, with an additional inch on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful, historical feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, faulty weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. When these issues arise, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is re-glazing using 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 prevent the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows need planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window replacement near me with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.

It is important to decide if you want to repair or replace the damaged window, since each choice will require a different degree and cost of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be a better alternative. However when the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. 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 the problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. A foggy glass problem, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves taking apart the window frame, which isn't something most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. You can also install an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and stop the window from squealing.

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Store the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window doctor. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a major one for homeowners. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits but the original features of a home that was built earlier add authenticity and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can result in increased costs for energy and damage to 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 draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the window frame and is best left to a professional. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

The process of bringing the window apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and held by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. After the sashes have been put back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk puncturing the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the sash pulley axles.