Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.
First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop using the knife of a utility. Then, take off the staff bead and take the upper sash out by removing cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and can be subject to problems like wet rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also cause rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can cause moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is prone to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.
In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash and frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.
A strip should be cut to the height of the sash. There should be an additional inch to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The Sash window is a beautiful and historic feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken Double Glazing Repairers bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. If you encounter any of these problems it’s time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore the appearance and function to the same standard as its original state. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and repairing any rot-related damage. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as the re-glazing process 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 put in brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.
If a replacement sash needed, it can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will preserve the traditional style of your home. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.
When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between replacement or repair double glazed window, since each kind of repair will require a different level of expertise and price. For example when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing, replacement is the best choice. But, if the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It’s important to consider the extent of a issue, since it might not be feasible to replace a complete window. A foggy glass problem, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. The majority of homeowners don’t want take apart the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window repairman frames back to their original splendor or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat from the window. It may also be beneficial to put in a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.
To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect 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 by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
Repair
It is important for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The sliding mechanism may become sloppy or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair windows of sash windows to professionals, as it requires extensive dismantling. But, with the right tools and know-how it’s possible to fix old sash windows repairs yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won’t be pulled back by the weights attached. It’s now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity and is supported by a cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.