Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with various issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly insulated. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.
First, knock off the seal on the paint of the window stop using a utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead and pull out the upper sash and remove the chains or cords, and then storing the hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require 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 improve the efficiency of energy.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood and the growth of mold. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing windows from closing and opening without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it has a tendency to rip, and it can affect the appearance of windows.
When installing replacement runners for sash, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners that will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older structures, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught proofed with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.
The strip should be cut at the top of the sash and with an inch more on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws, because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be prone to problems. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can cause a lot of trouble. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window the same or superior to its original state. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as 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 fit brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.
If you require a new sash the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in place, it's best 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 in the slots of the window frame.
It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different level and cost of expertise. For instance, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is rotting or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.
Replacement
Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause problems such as 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 sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.
Think about the scope of the problem. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace a window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are a complicated design that has many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners opt to hire a specialist for these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to add a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Store the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.
Repair
The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a crucial one for homeowners. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can also save energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible 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 open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to the professionals. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to start:
Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a large iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To prevent Sidcup window repair 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 strip any paint off the sash stops with an utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the sash pulley axles.