Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows may be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little attention can often restore them to a top level of performance.
First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with a label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings but they require maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like wet rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve the efficiency of energy.
The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from a sash window, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. The gap can be filled by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option, but it has a tendency to rip, and it can affect the appearance of a window.
It is important to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window.
In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account when cutting and measuring material.
A strip should be cut to the height of the sash. There should be an extra inch on each side to allow movement. It should be cut square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are susceptible to issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time for a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash however, it can restore the appearance and function to the same standard as its original state. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the rattling.
If a replacement sash required, it can be made using the same design 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 changes made to windows will require planning permission.
Check the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.
If a window has been damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and price. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be a better option. But, if the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be the better option.
Replacement
While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance than simply replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even necessary to replace windows. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows feature a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to take on themselves. For these reasons, many choose to work with a specialist.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows with sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat through the window. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.
To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.
Repair
It is important for homeowners to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist since it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and know-how it's possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out 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. It's time to take off the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and held by a rope. To stop window repair near me falling into the void hit it with nails and remove the weight.
After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. When the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the weight that is balancing.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the parting beads if needed. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and re-install the axles for the sash pulleys.