Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with a variety of problems, including draughts and rattles. They could also be poorly constructed to be insulated. A little bit of care can often bring them back to their original performance.
First, remove the paint seal using an utility knife. Then remove the staff bead, then remove the upper sash by removing chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside the shutter.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it, and mold growth. The gap can be filled by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.
It is essential to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.
In older structures the gap between the frames and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to consider this when measuring and cutting material.
The strip should be cut at the top of the sash with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling or leaking are typical issues. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective weights or rotten frames can cause issues. If you encounter any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will restore the appearance and function to the same level that it was in its original form. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. It also includes 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 minimize the rattling.
If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed using similar designs to the frame of the previous one and preserve your property's heritage style. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Before putting the new window on, it's best to compare its metal tabs to those on the old sash (see below). If they're different sizes the new sash may not fit inside the slots of the window frame.
It is important to decide if you want to repair or replace windows that are damaged, as each will require a different level and amount of expertise. For example, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing, a replacement will be the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay, 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 like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
It's important to consider the extent of a issue, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. It is often possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows feature a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. The majority of homeowners don't want disassemble the window frame to fix these problems. Because of this, many choose to work with a professional.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Lastly, remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe location. The heat gun will soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and put back the upper sash.
Repair
It is important for homeowners to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. window repair are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older home can provide the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Keeping them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to the professionals. With the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
The process of bringing the window apart begins by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and secured by cords. To keep the sash from falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords of the sash. Then, using a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the weight of the 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 for parting if necessary. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.