The Most Significant Issue With Sash Windows Repair, And How You Can Fix It

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows can be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. With a little care they can be repaired to their original performance.

First, remove the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a container with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they do need maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. There are a variety of methods to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can cause moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.

If a gap is hindering the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement runners for sash It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and better operation of the window.

In older structures, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is important to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.

A strip should be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch to allow movement. It should be cut square and placed in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws, as brass can rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could create a mess. When these issues arise, it's time for repairs or replacements to your sash.

Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. It also includes re-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). 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 style to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the traditional style of your property. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash won't fit in the slots of the window frame.

If a window has been damaged, it is essential to decide between replacement or repair, since each kind of repair will involve a different level of expertise and cost. For instance, if a sash window has a significant piece of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. However in the event that the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill is damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. But there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the extent of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have lots of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle themselves. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat through the window. It may also be beneficial to add an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair take out the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a secure position. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for the homeowner to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits however, the original features of a home that was built earlier give authenticity and value to the property and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These problems can lead to increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is held by a cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce 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 cords of the sash. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the balancing weight.

Reassemble  window repairs  by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.