Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to their original performance.
First, take off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead, then remove the upper sash, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a bag marked.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage within a sash.
A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can cause water leaking into the wood, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
If a gap is hindering windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it is prone to tear and detract from the appearance of a window.
It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older buildings, the gap between frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip should be cut to the height of the sash. There should be an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed to align with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can get rusty. Also, make sure to use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. When these issues arise, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it will bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is re-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). In addition, it is recommended to install brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattle and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash is required it can be constructed using the same style to match the frame you have. This will preserve the heritage style of your property. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in place, it's best to check the metal tabs against the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different sizes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.
It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each option will require a different level and amount of knowledge. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be a better option. However in the event that the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be the better option.
Replacement
While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. These include the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace a window. For instance, a fogging glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a poor seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cable. Many homeowners do not want to take apart the window frame in order to fix these problems. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It may also be beneficial to put in a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or glazing repair hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads 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 offer many advantages however, the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can reduce energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could become dislodged or even draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals because they require extensive removal. But, with the right tools and experience it's possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed which is a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away inside a cavity and held by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. When the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.