Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly insulated. With a little effort they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop using a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has a label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and could be susceptible to problems like cracks in putty, wet rot and Double glazing repairs Woodley draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window repairs Croydon is an effective way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in a Sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option, but it can rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of windows.

It is essential to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.

In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

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

Refurbishment

The windows with sash are a stunning, historic feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If these issues occur, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. It also involves re-painting the frame of timber and re-glazing 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 the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash needed, it can be made using the same design to match your old frame. This will help preserve the style and character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in place, it's best to examine its metal tabs with those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.

It is crucial to determine whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each option will require a different level and amount of knowledge. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is an alternative. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is important to determine the severity of the issue, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A weak seal can be fixed with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows feature a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss through the window. It may also be beneficial to add a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Place the equipment in a secure location. Use a heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and install the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits but the original features of an older home provide personality and value to the home and are often cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the 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 is best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional since it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and experience it's possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and pull out 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 attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight that is a massive lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the double Glazing Repairs Woodley bars and the cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and re-attach the sash pulley axles.