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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly insulated. With a little care, they can be restored to their original performance.
First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop using a utility knife. Then remove the staff bead, then take the upper sash out by removing chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however 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 sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.
Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is frequent. This can lead to the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be filled by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze could be necessary if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can detract the appearance of your window.
When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.
In older buildings the gap between the frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the top of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to make use of stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames can cause issues. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, however, it can restore the appearance and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. It also includes 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the noise of rattling.
If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows need planning permission.
Compare 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 will not fit in the window frame slots.
It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each choice will require a different degree and amount of knowledge. For example the case of a sash windows that has a significant piece of glass missing then replacement is the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.
Replacement
Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Think about the scope of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace windows. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem in the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are quite complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to fix common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame to fix the issues. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Place the equipment in a secure location. The heat gun will soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is a crucial one for homeowners. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits however, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide personality and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could become dislodged or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a sash windows to professionals, as it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity, and supported by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes are removed clean the jambs as well as meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and cords for the sash. Then, using repairing upvc windows take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the weight that is balancing.
Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.