Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years can have various issues such as rattles and draughts. repairmywindowsanddoors might also be poorly insulation. A little bit of care can often restore them to their original performance.
First, remove the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has the label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to problems 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 energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is an issue that is frequent. This can cause water leaking into the wood the wood, rotting, and mould growth. The gap can be closed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be necessary when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.
When installing replacement sash runners it is essential to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fit and a better performance of the window.
In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when measuring and cutting material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, make sure to use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glass bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will bring back the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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 is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize rattling.
If a replacement sash is required It can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the style and character of your property. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.
If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, since each kind of repair will require a different level of expertise and cost. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is the better option. But, if the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill is damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing them is often the only option to solve these issues. But there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
It is crucial to assess the extent of a problem, 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 and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the window frame in order to repair these issues. This is why many homeowners choose to work with an expert.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping out of the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin a repair take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
Repair
The choice to replace or repair the sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist because it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and know-how it is possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:
The process of bringing the window apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. 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 paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To stop the sash falling into the void, hit it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then employing a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.