Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years can have various issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly constructed to be insulated. With a little attention, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.
First, remove the seal of paint from the window stop using a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracked putty, wet rot, and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.
The gaps between sash frame are the main source of drafts. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood and growth of mould. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing windows from opening and closing without a hitch, it might be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it is prone to tear, and can detract from the appearance of a window.
It is important to measure the entire window opening before installing new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal line on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.
In older structures, the gap between frames and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.
A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, and with an additional inch to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, because brass is prone to rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a beautiful historical feature of a lot of homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you encounter any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as 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 put in brush pile weather strips to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash is needed it can be constructed using the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your property. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different level and amount of expertise. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best choice. However when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, such as installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of the issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. A glass that is foggy, 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 corrected by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame to repair these issues. For these reasons, many opt to hire a professional.
A professional can help restore sash windows back to their original glory or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. You can also add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
The choice to replace or repair windows with sash is a major one for homeowners. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits but the original features of an older home provide authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Keeping them in upvc repair good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to drafts, rattles, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close, and the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and skills it's possible to repair an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Making the window come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. 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. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed inside a hidden compartment and secured by a rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and cords of the sash. Then using a utility knife take off any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.