Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with various issues, including draughts and rattles. They may also be inefficiently insulation. With a little care they can be restored to a high level of performance.
First, cut off the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has the label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot, and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing may be used to limit the air leakage in the Sash.
A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This can cause water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option however it has a tendency to rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of windows.
It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.
In older buildings the gap between sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is crucial to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.
A strip must be cut to the length of the sash, and with an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. If these issues occur, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, but it will improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good if not better than the original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves re-painting the timber frame 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.
If the need for a new sash arises, it can be made from similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different sizes, the new sash will not fit into the slots of the window frame.
If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. For instance, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, a replacement will be the best choice. However, if the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill is rotting then a repair will be the better option.
Replacement
While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. There are other options to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
Think about the scope of the issue. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are quite complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame in order to fix these problems. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional due to these reasons.
A specialist can help restore windows with 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 from the window. It can also be helpful to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To start a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead, then pull out the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Place the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach window repair . Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the 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 however, the original features of an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation. These issues can lead to higher energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to a professional. With the right tools and experience it's possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Getting the window to come apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and supported by cords. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with nails and remove the weight.
When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging 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 aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.