Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little care they can be repaired to a high level of performance.
First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag with a label.
Sealing
Sash windows look gorgeous in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the upvc windows repairs sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.
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 cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of windows.
When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of 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 fitting and better operation of the window.
In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame at 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 measuring and cutting material.
A strip should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an additional inch each side to allow to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will get rusty. Also, make sure you use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time for upvc doors repairs or replacements to 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 better than its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also involves 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 rattling.
If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows require planning permission.
Before putting 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 and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.
If a window is damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and expense. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing then replacing it will be an alternative. However, if the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill has been damaged, a lock repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
It's important to consider the severity of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. For example, a foggy glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have a lot of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. The majority of homeowners don't want disassemble the window frame in order to fix these problems. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.
A specialist can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping from the window. It may also be beneficial to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window repair. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall 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 in an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Keeping them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could become sloppy or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to a professional. But, with the right tools and experience it is possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and secured by a rope. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and the cords for the sash. Then, using a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.