Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

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

First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash, taking off cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and are susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also trigger noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. There are a variety of methods to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing.

A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can result in the leaking of moisture the wood, rotting and the growth of mould. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required in the event that a gap blocks the windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure 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 then be transferred to new runners, which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash and frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is crucial to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same standard in its original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the 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 prevent the rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside 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 expertise. For example when a sash window has a large piece of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best option. But in the event that the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has been damaged, installed a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good shape, installed but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass can also occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only logical solution. But there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

Consider the extent of the problem. It might not be necessary or even suitable to replace windows. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle on their own. Because of this, many opt to hire a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping from the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. 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

It is important for homeowners to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to the professionals. But, with the right tools and experience it is possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity, and secured by cords. To keep the sash from falling into the void pierce it with nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the double glazing repairs Stanmore bars and sash cords. Then using a utility knife take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.