A Sash Windows Repair Success Story You'll Never Be Able To

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows be prone to 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, take off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and Windows repair take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a bag with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, however they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also trigger noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in a sash.

A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can cause moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing the windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it can rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of windows.

It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.

In older structures the gap between frame and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting material.

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, with an additional inch for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed to align with the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, as brass can rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars, windows repair or damaged weights could create a mess. When these problems occur it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will restore the appearance and function to the same standard in its original condition. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves 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 minimize rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different degree and level of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is an alternative. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only solution to these issues. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. This includes 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 practical to replace an entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame to fix the issues. For these reasons, many choose to work with an expert.

A specialist 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, which will stop heat escaping through the window. It can also be helpful to add a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair take out the window repair near stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the double glazed window repairs, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features in an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could be slack or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the window frame and should be left to professionals. But, with the right tools and experience it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and knot the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. It's now time 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. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then employing a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.