Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years can have a variety of problems that include rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently insulated. A little attention can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.

First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require care. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage within the Sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is frequent. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and growth of mold. The gap can be closed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it has a tendency to tear and detract from the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and frame on the leading edge. It can be draught proofed with a strip of self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an additional inch for movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time for repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good, if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by 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 fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattling and improve insulation.

If a replacement sash is required it can be constructed using the same style to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the style and character of your house. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in before installing it, make sure you compare its metal tabs to those on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes, the new sash will not fit into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each option will require a different degree and level of expertise. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be an option. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.

It is important to determine the extent of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace the entire window. Foggy glass for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be remedied with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to solve common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.

A specialist can assist in restoring windows with sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to current energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from rattling.

To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

It is important for homeowners to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional, as it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and experience, it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the sash at the bottom. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds 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 secured by cords. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.