Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, however they require care. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage within a Sash.

A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can result in the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary if a gap prevents the windows from closing and opening smoothly. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can tear and affect the appearance of windows.

When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to 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 is possible to draught proof by a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash. There should be an extra inch to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and placed to align with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will be rusty. Also, make sure to use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Rotting frames and meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, faulty weights or rotten frames can cause issues. If you experience any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves lining the joining rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and fixing any rot damage. 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash required, it can be made using the same design to match your old frame. This will maintain the style and character of your home. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs on the new window to the old sash before installing it (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each choice will require a different level and cost of expertise. For example, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing, replacement is the best option. But when the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these issues. But there are ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.

It's important to consider the severity of a problem, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole 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 have a complex design with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common problems like cracked panes or sash cables that have snapped. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window doctor frame to repair these issues. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows with sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure place. The heat gun will soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace the sash window is an important one for homeowners. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits but the original features of an older home provide personality and value to the property and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows can be 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 or close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional because it requires a lot of removal. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's time to take off the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed and a thin strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity and is supported by an elastic cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and the sash cords. Then employing a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. After the sashes have been put back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid damaging the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.