Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little care can often bring them back to their original performance.

First, take off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a bag with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they require maintenance and can be subject to issues like wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from a sash window, including sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sash and the sill. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze might be necessary when a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can rip, misted and it can affect the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement sash runners, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.

In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to consider this when cutting and measuring material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. 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). In addition, it is recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.

If a new sash is needed It can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will preserve the heritage style of your property. This is particularly important for listed properties where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window in before installing it, make sure you examine its metal tabs with those on the old sash (see below). If they're different sizes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.

When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and cost. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be the better option. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be the better option.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draughtproofing and Installing secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the severity of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. A foggy glass problem 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 poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have lots of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves taking apart the window replacement frame, which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

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

To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Place the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the window frame, so it's best left to a professional. With the right tools and experience it is possible to repair an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. The next step is to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased inside a hidden compartment and secured by a rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then employing a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.