So You ve Bought Sash Windows Repair ... Now What

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows may be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little attention can often restore them to a top level of performance.

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

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot, and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can cause the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze might be required if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, but it is prone to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

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

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash and with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass will rust. Also, make sure to use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash, but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to the same or better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber 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 install brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.

If the need for a new sash arises, it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Before you put the new window in, it's best to examine its metal tabs with those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may 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 kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. For example when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay, then a repair would be better.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however the deterioration of the window repair will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of the issue, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. A foggy glass problem, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle themselves. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with an expert.

A specialist can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping out of the double glazed window repairs near me. You can also add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.

To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits, the original features of an older home provide authenticity and value to the property and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can also lower the cost of energy. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as it requires extensive dismantling. With the right tools and skills, it is possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead, installed (Read the Full Posting) then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and secured by an elastic cord. 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 and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and cords for the sash. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.