Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with a variety of problems such as rattles and draughts. They may also be inefficiently insulated. A little bit of care can often restore them to a top level of performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings, however they require maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in the Sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can cause moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace 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 are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option, but it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older structures, glaze there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch to allow for movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass may rust. Also, make sure you use high-quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The Sash window is a beautiful, historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as and broken glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights are all causes of problems. When these problems occur it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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 fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If a replacement sash is required, it can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will help preserve the heritage style of your house. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window in, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

If a window is damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and cost. For example when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then a replacement will be the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of the issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

Specialists can restore sash upvc window repairs near me frames back to their original glory or update them to meet modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Place the equipment in a secure location. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a crucial one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits, the original features of an older home give personality and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can lower the cost of energy. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as it requires a lot of removal. However, with the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the weight balancing, which is a heavy iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords for the sash. Then using a utility knife take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

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