Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. With a little care they can be repaired to their original performance.
First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop using a utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and pull out the upper sash, taking off cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require maintenance and are susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.
Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Different methods can be employed to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This can result in moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be required in the event that a gap blocks windows from opening and shutting easily. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can rip, and it can affect the appearance of a window.
When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to measure the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.
In older structures the gap between frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, and with an extra inch on each side for movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be prone to problems. window repairs near me are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can cause a lot of trouble. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself, however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good, if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 install brush pile weather strips to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash required, it can be made using the same design to match your old frame. This will preserve the heritage style of your property. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.
Check the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.
It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each will require a different level and cost of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is a better 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
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, like installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or suitable to replace windows. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't something that most homeowners want to take on themselves. Many homeowners decide 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 modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from getting out of the window. You can also add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and stop the window from squealing.
To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and put back the upper sash.
Repair
The choice of replacing or repairing windows with sash is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages but the original features of an older house provide authenticity and value to the property and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and should be left to the professionals. With the right tools and skills it is possible for you to repair old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Getting the window to come apart begins by removing any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and supported by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.
Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any parting beads. Then, reconnect the sash chains or cords and re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.