Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows be prone to a variety of issues, including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.
First, remove the seal on the paint of the window stop using the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. Keep the hardware in a bag that has a label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require care. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.
A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood and the growth of mold. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required if a gap prevents the windows from closing and opening smoothly. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
It is important to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.
In older buildings, the gap between frame and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to consider this when measuring and cutting material.
A strip should be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an extra inch each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and high-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. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as and broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time for a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window the same or better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and repairing any rot damage. It also involves re-painting the timber frame 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). In addition, it is recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.
If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the frame of the previous one and preserve your property's heritage style. window repair is especially important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.
It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each choice will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For example when a sash window has a significant piece of glass missing, replacing it is the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be better.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, however the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
It is important to determine the extent of a 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 fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common issues such as broken panes, or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to remove the window frame to fix these problems. Because of this, many opt to hire a specialist.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from rattling.
To begin a repair start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it off with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.
Repair
It is crucial for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can help reduce the energy cost. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This could result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional because it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:
Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and held by a rope. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with an hammer 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 off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.