Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years can have various issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be inefficiently insulation. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop using the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out 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 can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside the Sash.
A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can lead to the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is prone to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.
In older structures there is a greater gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to consider this when cutting and measuring material.
A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, with an extra inch to allow movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can be rusty. Also, make sure you use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If these issues occur, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash but it will restore your sash's look and function to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 prevent the noise of rattling.
If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep your property's heritage style. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes 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 they're different shapes the new sash may not fit inside the window frame slots.
It is important to decide if you want to repair or replace a damaged window, as each choice will require a different level and amount of expertise. If a large portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is an alternative. If the glass is only damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be better.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.
It is important to determine the severity of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs in the sash itself and is typically a solution without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal by making a few easy solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are a complicated design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners opt to work with a professional due to these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat loss out of the window. You can also install a upvc window repairs brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from shaking.
To start a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Then, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the equipment in a secure location. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and put back the upper sash.
Repair
It is crucial for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can also lower energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to drafts and rattles. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the window, so it's best left to professionals. But, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.
When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent cutting the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.