Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues such as rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little attention they can be restored to a higher level of performance.
First, remove the seal on the paint of the window stop using an utility knife. Then, remove the staff bead and take the upper sash out by removing chains or cords, and then storing the equipment in a bag labeled.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.
The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents windows from closing and opening smoothly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to stop 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 affect the appearance of windows.
When replacing sash runners it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.
In window repairs , the gap between frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed with a strip of self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch added on each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to match the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. When these problems occur it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window the same or better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is 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). Finally, it's recommended to install brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.
If a new sash is needed, it can be made using the same design to match your old frame. This will preserve the heritage style of your house. This is particularly important for listed properties where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in place before installing it, make sure you examine its metal tabs with those on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.
When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between replacement or repair, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and cost. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be an option. But in the event that the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
Although many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other options to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is important to determine the extent of a issue, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs in the sash itself and is typically a solution without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common problems like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame to fix these problems. This is why many opt to hire a specialist.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping through the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon 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. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also reduce the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles, drafts and condensation. These problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals because it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a hidden cavity and secured by a rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
After the sashes are removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. When the sashes are back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and re-install the axles of the sash pulleys.