Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can be plagued by a variety of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require care. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them the windows, repairing or sealing them.
The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. There are a variety of methods to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty 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 sill and the sash. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option, but it can tear, and can affect the appearance of a window.
It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet, 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 proper fit and a better performance of the window.
In older structures the gap between the frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, and with an additional inch on each side to allow movement. It should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential 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. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and 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 install brush pile weather strip to minimize the rattling.
If a replacement sash is needed It can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the traditional style of your house. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes to 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 correctly into the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different degree and cost of expertise. For example the case of a sash windows that has a large piece of glass missing then replacement is the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay, then a repair would be better.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good shape, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass can also occur. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other ways to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is crucial to assess the extent of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A weak seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues such as broken panes, or snapped sash cable. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.
A professional can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat loss from the window. It is also possible to add a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and put back the upper sash.
Repair
The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is a major one for homeowners. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide character and value to the property and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
The process of bringing the window apart begins by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. Now it's time 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. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and secured by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the weight that is balancing.
To reassemble window repair onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reconnect the beads that separate if required. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-install the sash pulley axles.