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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles and poor insulation. With a little care, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing may all be used to reduce the air leakage within the shutter.

A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can cause water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering the windows from closing and opening easily, window doctor it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it is prone to tear and detract from the appearance of windows.

It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash and frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow movement. The strip should be cut square and placed so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can get rusty. Also, make sure to use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could create a mess. If you experience any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive 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. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as re-glazing using traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and window Doctor replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of glass). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If a new sash is needed, it can be made using the same design to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the heritage style of your house. This is particularly important for listed properties where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash won't fit in the slots of the window frame.

It is important to decide if you want to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different level and level of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be the better option. However when the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has begun decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass can also occur. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It may not be necessary or suitable to replace a window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows have a complex design with many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window doctor near me frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. You can also install an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from squealing.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The choice to replace or repair windows with sash is an important one for homeowners. Although modern replacements offer many advantages but the original features of an older house give personality and value to the home and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional, as it requires extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Making the window doctor come apart starts by removing any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and secured by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint from the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.