Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

First, cut off the paint seal using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are gorgeous in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They can be affected by problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of sash windows by replacing, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. There are a variety of methods to reduce air leaks in a sash window, including sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.

A gap between the top or 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. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required when a gap is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is prone to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.

It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening before installing an alternative sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older buildings the gap between the frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is essential to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.

The strip should be cut at the top of the sash, with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust. Also, make sure you use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to issues. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. Rotting frames and meeting rails as along with broken glazing bars, faulty frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash however, it can restore the appearance and function to the same level in its original condition. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing any damage caused by rot. It also involves re-painting the frame of timber and re-glazing 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 prevent rattling.

If a new sash is required it can be constructed using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve the character of your house. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window on before installing it, make sure you examine its metal tabs with the tabs on the old sash (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit in the slots of the window frame.

If a window is damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will require a different level of expertise and cost. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then replacement is the best choice. But when the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. These issues usually point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. But there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or even appropriate to replace a window. A foggy glass problem, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to remove the window frame to fix the issues. For these reasons, many opt to hire a professional.

A specialist can assist in restoring sash windows to their original splendor or even bring them up to the latest 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 a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from shaking.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is an important one for the homeowner. While modern replacements provide a host of benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier give character and value to the home and are often cheaper to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can also lower energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open and the standard glass repair sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist because it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. After the sashes have been put returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent damaging the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and re-install the sash pulley axles.