Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows be prone to a variety of issues, including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. With a little attention they can be repaired to a high level of performance.
First, cut off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then remove the staff bead and take the upper sash out and remove the cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they do need maintenance and can be subject to problems like cracked putty, wet rot and drafts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. There are a variety of methods to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is a common problem. This could cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood and growth of mold. The gap can be filled with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the top of the sash and with an inch more on each side to allow movement. The strip should be cut square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws, because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The Sash window is a beautiful and historic feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful but they can also be susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are common issues. Rotting frames and rails that meet, as well as broken glazing bars, damaged frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If you experience any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash however, it can restore your sash's look and functionality to the same level as its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also involves re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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 fit brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattling and improve insulation.
If you require a new sash it can be constructed using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep your property's heritage style. This is particularly important for listed properties where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash won't fit in the slots of the window frame.
When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between repair or replacement since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and expense. For instance, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best choice. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill has been decaying, a repair may be the better option.
Replacement
While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. For example, a foggy glass issue typically occurs within the sash and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows have a complex design that has many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems such as broken panes, or snapped sash cables. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame to fix these problems. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping through the window. It is also possible to add a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and remove the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Then remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler by using a hot gun. Then 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
It is crucial for the homeowner to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Inspecting them regularly can help lower energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to double glazing repair professionals. However, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights attached. It's time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity and is supported by cords. To keep the sash from falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk puncturing the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads that separate if required. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and re-install the axles for the sash pulleys.