Notes

9 Signs You're A Sash Windows Repair Expert
Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be inefficiently insulation. With a little attention they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, remove the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a container with an identification label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also lead to rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in the sash.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sill and the sash. This could cause moisture to leak in, rotting wood and the growth of mold. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option, but it can tear and detract from the appearance of windows.

It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.

In older buildings the gap between frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is important to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.


A strip should be cut to the height of the sash, with an additional inch on each side to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and placed to align 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 window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, stickiness or draughts. Frames that are rotting and meeting rails as and broken glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself however, it can restore the look 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 repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as re-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 install brush pile weather strip to prevent the rattling.

If a replacement sash is required It can be made with the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the style and character of your home. This is particularly important for listed properties where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.

Before you put the new window in before installing it, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they are different shapes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each will require a different degree and cost of expertise. For example when a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then a replacement will be the best choice. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish 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. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. There are other ways to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Consider the extent of the issue. It may not be necessary or even appropriate to replace windows. Foggy glass for instance is typically caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal with a few simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame in order to repair these issues. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional.

A specialist can help restore windows made of sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. It may also be beneficial to add a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Place the hardware in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

It is essential for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits, the original features of an older home provide authenticity and value to the property and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can lower the cost of energy. Sash windows are prone 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 close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the frame of the window, so it's best left to the professionals. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. It's time to take off the upper sash. Remove the sash stops which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the weight balancing, which is a large iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a hidden cavity and held by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then, using Internet Page take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If necessary, reattach any beads that are parting. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.

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