Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues, including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little bit of care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.
First, remove the paint seal from the window stop using a utility knife. Then remove the staff bead, then remove the upper sash by removing chains or cords and storing the hardware in a bag marked.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.
The gaps between sash and frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, special 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 could cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood and growth of mold. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
If a gap is hindering the windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle. They are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option, but it can rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of a window.
When replacing sash runners, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. window repairs is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.
In older structures, there is a wider gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip must be cut to the length of the sash, and with an additional inch to allow movement. It should be cut square and positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The Sash window is a beautiful and historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, damaged frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. When these problems occur it's time for a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment can be a more costly option than simply replacing the sash, but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window as good, if not better than the original condition. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any rot-related damage. It also includes 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 to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.
If a new sash is required it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may not fit in the window frame slots.
If a window has been damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and price. For instance the case of a sash windows that has a large chunk of glass missing then replacing it is the best choice. But, if the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun decaying, a repair may be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash window in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues usually suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of the issue, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. Foggy glass, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. For these reasons, many opt to hire an expert.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. It may also be beneficial to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Next, remove the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Store the hardware in a safe location. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is important for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. While modern replacements provide numerous benefits but the original features of an older home add authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can also save energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation. These issues can lead to higher energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could be slack or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the window, so it's best left to a professional. With the right tools and know-how it's possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip 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 large 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 sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.