Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, cut off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a container with a label.
Sealing
window repair look stunning in older buildings, however they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.
The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing may all be used to reduce the air leakage within a sash.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is common. This could cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood, and mold growth. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be required when a gap is preventing the windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. 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 an alternative option however it is prone to tear and affect the appearance of windows.
It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash 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 structures the gap between the frame and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.
A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, and with an extra inch each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass will be rusty. Also, make sure to use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Common issues include rattling draughts or sticking. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. 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 bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce rattling.
If a new sash is needed, it can be made with the same design to match your old frame. This will maintain the style and character of your property. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against the tabs on the old sash (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the window frame slots.
If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and price. For example, if a sash window has a significant piece of glass missing, a replacement will be the best choice. But, if the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be the better option.
Replacement
Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often suggest replacement as the only logical solution. There are other options to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of a issue, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows feature a complicated design with many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame to repair these issues. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with an expert.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss through the window. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Then remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Place the equipment in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.
Repair
The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older house can add the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can help lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This can 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 be slack or draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
Getting the window to come apart starts by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Remove 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 stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and held by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.
When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the weight that is balancing.
To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.