Notes

Now That You've Purchased Sash Windows Repair ... Now What?
Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with various issues such as rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little care they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.

First, cut off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a bag with the label.

Sealing

Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to decrease energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.

Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to limit air leaks within 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 frequent. This can result in the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze could be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting easily. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and may alter the look of your window.

When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a perfect fit and a better performance of the window.

In older buildings the gap between sash and frame is usually greater around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to account for this when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut to the height of the sash with an inch extra on each side to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws, as brass can rust, and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. Frames that are rotting and meeting rails as and broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself however, it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and repairing any rot damage. 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 the rattling.

If you require a new sash, it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.

Check 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 window frame slots.

It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each will require a different level and amount of knowledge. For example, if a sash window has a large piece of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be more appropriate.

Replacement

Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, such as installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.

It is crucial to assess the extent of a issue, since it might not be feasible to replace a complete window. Read the Full Report for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also 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 have many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame in order to fix these problems. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.


A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat loss through the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Place the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away using a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and install the upper sash.

Repair

The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is an important one for the homeowner. Modern replacements have many benefits however, the original features in an older home can provide the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Inspecting them regularly can also reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. 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. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to the professionals. However, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:

Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and held by an elastic cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the sash cords. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the balancing.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Finally, reattach the sash chains or cords and re-install the axles for the sash pulleys.

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