Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows may suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little care can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has the label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues such as 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 source of drafts. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be required if a gap prevents the windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle. They can be purchased from DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is prone to tear and may alter the look of your window.
It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a new sash runners. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.
In older structures the gap between frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash and with an inch extra on each side to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass can get rusty. Also, make sure you use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. These windows are beautiful but they can also be susceptible to issues. Common issues include rattling draughts or sticking. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. When these problems occur it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but can bring back the appearance and function to the same standard that it was in its original form. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize rattling.
If a new sash is needed it can be constructed using the same design to match your existing frame. This will help preserve the heritage style of your home. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in place before installing it, make sure you examine its metal tabs with the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.
If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement, because each kind of work will require a different level of expertise and cost. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing then replacing it will be the better alternative. However when the glass is damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be the better option.
Replacement
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. double glazing Oldham is also a possibility to occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these issues. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, such as installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.
Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. A glass that is foggy, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. The solution to these issues typically involves dismantling the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Because of this, many homeowners choose to work with an expert.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping from the window. It is also possible to put in a brush pile strip to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take off the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Place the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is important for homeowners to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features in an older home can add 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 susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional since it requires a lot of removal. However, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. 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. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and secured by rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void hit it with nails and remove the weight.
After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars and the sash cords. 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 small enough not to puncture the weight of the balancing.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.