Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little bit of care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.
First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. Keep the hardware in a container with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require maintenance and can be subject to issues like wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them the windows, repairing or sealing them.
The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can result in moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. The gap can be closed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
When replacing sash runners it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a good fit and better operation of the window.
In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash and frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when measuring and cutting material.
A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an extra inch each side to allow to allow for movement. It should be cut square and positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, make sure you use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous however they are susceptible to problems. Common problems include rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, faulty frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but can bring back the appearance and function to the same level as its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. It also involves 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). Finally, it's recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.
If a new sash is required, it can be made from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs door repairs on the new window to the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit properly into the window frame slots.
If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and price. For example the case of a sash windows that has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is beginning to rot or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.
Replacement
While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only logical solution. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of a 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 itself and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like broken panes or snapped sash cable. Resolving these issues often requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to take on themselves. For these reasons, many choose to work with a professional.
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 out of the window. It may also be beneficial to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin a repair, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Store the hardware in a secure location. Heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and install the upper sash.
Repair
The choice to replace or repair a sash window is an important one for homeowners. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits but the original features of a home that was built earlier provide authenticity and value to the home and are often cheaper to fix than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Getting the window to come apart begins by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and remove any painted-covered 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 held by cords. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then employing a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the weight that is balancing.
To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.