Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little care they can be repaired to their original performance.
First, remove the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Then remove the staff bead and remove the upper sash, taking off cords or chains and storing hardware in a bag marked.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require maintenance and are susceptible to problems like wet rot, cracked putty and drafts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve the efficiency of energy.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors and secondary glazing.
A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood, and mold growth. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze might be necessary in the event that a gap blocks windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option however it can tear and detract from the appearance of windows.
When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to take full measurements of the window opening. 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 of sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.
In older structures, the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account when measuring and cutting material.
The strip should be cut to the height of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The windows with sash are a stunning and historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars, or damaged weights could add to the inconvenience. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself but it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is re-glazing using 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 a replacement sash is needed, it can be made with the same design to match your old frame. This will preserve the heritage style of your property. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in place It is recommended to examine its metal tabs with those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit into the window frame slots.
It's important to decide whether to repair or replace a damaged window, as each will require a different degree and level of knowledge. For example, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing, a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is rotting, then a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why it's often the only option to solve these issues. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Consider the extent of the issue. It might not be necessary or suitable to replace a window. A foggy glass problem for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are extremely complex in design and have many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cable. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle themselves. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.
A specialist can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from rattling.
To start a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is essential for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older home can provide character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and skills it's possible for you to repair the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights attached. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and secured by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.