14 Common Misconceptions Concerning Sash Windows Repair

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with a variety of problems that include rattles and draughts. They might also be inefficiently insulated. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.
First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows are gorgeous in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them the windows, repairing or sealing them.
Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. Different methods can be employed to stop air leaks from windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is frequent. This can lead to water leaking into the wood and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily. These bronze strips are stapled or nailed 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, however it is more likely to tear and may alter the look of your window.
It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom of the 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, the gap between frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting material.
A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch to allow for movement. It should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also important to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is a more expensive option than simply replacing the sash itself, but it can improve the appearance and functionality of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the joining rail and sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also includes re-painting the timber frame 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 put in brush pile weather strip to reduce rattling.
If a new sash is required the frame can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the old frame and maintain the style of your home's historic design. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in, it's best to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different sizes the new sash may not fit inside the window frame slots.
If a window is damaged, it is crucial to decide between replacement or repair, because each type of work will require a different degree of expertise and expense. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it would be the better alternative. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been decaying, a repair may be the better option.
Replacement
While many homeowners are keen to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or suitable to replace a window. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are extremely complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame to fix the issues. This is why many opt to hire an expert.
A specialist can assist in restoring sash windows to their original splendor, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from rattling.
To begin a repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep window repairs in a secure position. The heat gun will soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and put back the upper sash.
Repair
It is essential for homeowners to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features of an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can also lower the energy cost. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist since they require extensive dismantling. However, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them so that they cannot be pulled back by the attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity and is held by a cord. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and then install the sash pulleys.