Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have a variety of problems, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly insulation. A little care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. Keep the hardware in a container with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage within a shutter.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze could be required when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option, but it is prone to tear and affect the appearance of a window.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a good fit and better operation of the window.

In older structures, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, and with an extra inch on each side for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Common issues include rattling draughts or sticking. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged weights or rotten frames are all causes of problems. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window the same or better than the original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. 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 is also recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If a replacement sash is needed it can be constructed using the same style to match your existing frame. This will preserve the heritage style of your house. This is particularly important for listed properties where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

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

When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and cost. For instance, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is rotting and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the severity of the issue, since it might not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be remedied with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and have lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to remove the window frame in order to fix these problems. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat loss through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from rattling.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Use a heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is an important one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits, the original features of an older house give character and value to the home and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and should be left to the professionals. However, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. 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 time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and secured by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and cords for replacement the sash. Then, using a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.