9 Signs That You're The Sash Windows Repair Expert

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have a variety of problems, including draughts and rattles. They might also be poorly insulated. With a little attention they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracked putty, wet rot, and drafts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

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 cause water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. 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 in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening easily. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and may alter the look of your window.

When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the entire width of 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 buildings there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed with a strip of self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is essential to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip must be cut to the length of the sash, with an additional inch each side to allow to allow movement. It should be trimmed to a square shape and then positioned in a way 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 high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window to the same or superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a new sash is required, it can be made with the same design to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the traditional style of your home. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Before you put the new window in, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the window frame.

If a window has been damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and expense. For example when a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, replacing it is the best option. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is decaying, a door repair may be more appropriate.

Replacement

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

It is crucial to assess the severity of the problem, as it may not be feasible to replace a complete window. A foggy glass problem for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows have a complex design with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame to repair these issues. This is why many opt to hire a specialist.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning the 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 prevent the window from rattling.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Store the equipment in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a major one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the window frame and should be left to the professionals. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

The process of bringing the window apart begins by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, take 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 now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a large iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and anchored by rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void, hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on 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 weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.