Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly insulated. With a little attention they can be repaired to a high level of performance.
First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop using the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with a label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing may all be used to reduce the air leakage in a sash.
A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, rotting it and growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.
When installing replacement runners for sash It is crucial to measure the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.
In older buildings the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring the material.
A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, and with an extra inch on each side to allow movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws because brass is prone to rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Common problems include rattling, stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, faulty frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. If you encounter any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash itself however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window to the same or superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by decay. It also involves 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 install brush pile weather strips to lessen the rattling and increase insulation.
If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots.
When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement because each kind of work will involve a different level of expertise and price. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is a better option. However when the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has been decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good shape, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It's important to consider the extent of a issue, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are quite complicated in their design and come with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to tackle on their own. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with an expert.
A specialist can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to add an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler 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. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
Repair
It is essential for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features of an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These problems can result in increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional because it requires extensive removal. However, with windows repairs near me and experience it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess how to start:
Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and secured by cords. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and the cords for the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint from the sash stop. 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 putting the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the sash pulley axles.