Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems including draughts, rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little bit of care can often restore them to a top level of performance.
First, remove the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a bag with a label.
Sealing
Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot, and drafts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. There are a variety of methods to stop air leaks from a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can cause moisture leaking in the wood, rotting and growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be required when a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.
It is essential to determine the size of the window opening before installing new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.
In older structures the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash and with an inch extra on each side to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The Sash window is a beautiful historical feature in many homes. These windows are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level in its original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is glazing 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash is required It can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will preserve the traditional style of your house. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in place It is recommended to examine its metal tabs with the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each choice will require a different level and level of expertise. For example when a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. But, if the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these problems. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
It's important to consider the severity of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners want to tackle on their own. This is why many homeowners choose to work with an expert.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping out of the window. It can also be helpful to put in a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Lastly take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Store the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
It is crucial for homeowners to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These problems can lead to increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a window with sash to a specialist, as they require extensive removal. However, with the right tools and experience it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to start:
Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and secured by a cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using a nail and sacrifice the weight.
Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first into its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.