Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have a variety of problems such as rattles and draughts. They might also be inefficiently insulated. With a little effort they can be repaired to a high level of performance.
First, remove the paint seal using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with the label.
Sealing
Sash windows look gorgeous in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and can be subject to problems like cracked putty, wet rot, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.
Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in the sash.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting, and mold growth. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be necessary in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended 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 be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fit and better operation of the window.
In older structures the gap between the frame and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is crucial to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut square and placed in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are susceptible to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, but it will restore your sash's look and functionality to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. It also includes re-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). Finally, it's recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to lessen rattling and improve insulation.
If a new sash is required, it can be made using similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.
If a window is damaged, it is crucial to decide between replacement or repair, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a significant piece of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best choice. But in the event that the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has been decaying, a repair may be the better option.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. This is why replacing them is often the only option to solve these issues. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Consider the extent of the problem. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. A foggy glass problem for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems like broken panes or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame to repair these issues. Many homeowners opt to hire a specialist for these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are located in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the equipment in a secure location. Heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is important for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. While modern replacements provide numerous benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide character and value to the home and are often cheaper to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in window and door repairs good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the window frame and is best left to professionals. But, with the right tools and knowledge it is possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the attached weights. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and secured by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint off the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.