Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They may also be inefficiently insulation. With a little attention, they can be restored to their original performance.

First, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors knock off the seal of paint from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it is prone to rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement runners for sash It is crucial to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down 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 buildings there is a greater gap between the sash as well as the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow for RepairMyWindowsAndDoors movement. It should be cut squarely and placed to align with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass may be rusty. Also, make sure you use high-quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a variety of problems. Common issues include rattling stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as and broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you experience any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash, but it will bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to prevent rattling.

If a new sash is required the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each choice will require a different level and amount of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is a better alternative. But when the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill is damaged, a repair would be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of the problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners would want to tackle themselves. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or update them to meet modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping through the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and pull out the lower window doctor sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Place the hardware in a safe place. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and put back the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer many advantages, the original features of an older house give authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional because it requires extensive removal. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a concealed cavity and held by a rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using a nail and sacrifice the weight.

When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with an utility knife. When the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the weight that is balancing.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.