Notes

An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Sash Windows Repair
Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They may also be poorly insulation. A little attention can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and pull out the upper sash and remove the chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

window repairs can look stunning in old buildings, however they require maintenance and can be subject to problems like wet rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage inside a Sash.

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

If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option however it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of a window.

It is essential to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.

In older buildings, there is a wider gap between the sash and the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to consider this when cutting and measuring material.

A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, with an additional inch on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will rust. Also, use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to issues. Common issues include rattling stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as well as broken glazing bars, faulty frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. If you encounter any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window as good, if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to reduce the noise of rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed using similar designs to the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.

If a window is damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and cost. For example the case of a sash windows that has a large chunk of glass missing, replacing it is the best choice. However, if the glass has been damaged in a small area or a sill is damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.


Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, like installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

Think about the scope of the problem. It might not be necessary or even appropriate to replace windows. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can be fixed by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. This is why many choose to work with a specialist.

Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original splendor or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat through the window. It may also be beneficial to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and put back the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features of an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape can help save on energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist, as it requires a lot of removal. But, with the right tools and experience, it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Remove any security fittings in front of the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and secured by rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jambs as well as rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and cords for the sash. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash, place the top sash onto its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and re-install the sash pulley axles.

Here's my website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/ewell-windowrepair/