Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little attention can often restore them to their original performance.
First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop using a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a container with the label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.
The gaps between sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattling. Different methods can be employed to limit air leaks within the sash window, such as sealing beads, special 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 the sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, rotting it and growth of mold. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze may be required in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening smoothly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash 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 buildings the gap between sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass may rust. Also, make sure you use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will restore the appearance and functionality to the same level in its original condition. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as the re-glazing process 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize rattling.
If you require a new sash the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in, it's best to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each option will require a different level and cost of expertise. If a large part of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is a better alternative. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. This is why replacing them is often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of the issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. A foggy glass problem, for example, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be remedied with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame in order to fix the issues. Because of this, many opt to hire a specialist.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat through the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Store the hardware in a secure place. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and install the upper sash.
Repair
The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer many advantages, the original features of an older house provide character and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can lower energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional because it requires a lot of removal. With Rochester double glazing repairs and experience it's possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and tie the ends 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 supports the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is held by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void pierce it with nails and remove the weight.
After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.