Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years may have a variety of problems such as rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently insulation. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, remove the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a bag with the label.
Sealing
Sash windows are gorgeous in older buildings, but they require maintenance. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them, repairing or sealing them.
Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it tends to rip and may alter the look of your window.
It is important to determine the size of the window opening before installing an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure 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 later be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.
In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring material.
A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash, and with an additional inch to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stickiness or draughts. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. If you are experiencing any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. 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 is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the rattling.
If a new sash is required it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes the new sash may not fit into the window frame slots.
It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each option will require a different level and amount of expertise. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be the better alternative. 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
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
Take window repairs of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even suitable to replace a window. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame to repair these issues. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss from the window. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are on the side of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Store the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.
Repair
It is important for homeowners to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older house can add character and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These problems can result in increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of a window with sash to a specialist since they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash falling into the void hit it with nails and remove the weight.
Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint from the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough 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 stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reconnect the parting beads if needed. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and re-install the sash pulley axles.