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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to their original performance.
First, take off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a container with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and increase the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them.
Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in a sash.
A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can cause moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
If window repairs near me in the window is preventing windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is prone to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.
It is essential to measure the entire window opening prior to installing a replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down 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 the sash and frame is usually wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into account 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 to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Make sure to use stainless steel screws since brass will get rusty. Also, make sure you use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. These windows are gorgeous but they can also be prone to problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as and broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten are all causes of problems. If these issues 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 level in its original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any rot-related damage. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is the re-glazing process 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). Finally, it's recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made using the same style to match your old frame. This will help preserve the style and character of your property. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes to the windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window on, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the old sash (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash won't fit in the window frame slots.
If a window is damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be a better alternative. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot or rotting, then a repair could be better.
Replacement
While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause issues such as draughts, rattles, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Consider the extent of the problem. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace windows. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without tearing out the entire frame. It is often possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are quite complex in design and have many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues like broken panes or snapped sash cable. The solution to these issues typically involves taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.
A specialist can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat escaping through the window. It can also be helpful to add an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Place the equipment in a secure place. Soften any old filler or hardened putty using a heat gun, and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
It is important for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer many advantages, the original features of an older home add authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to fix than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation, and these problems can result in increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open, and the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. However, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, take off the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. Now it's time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and held by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.
Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint off the sash stops using an utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid damaging the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by placing the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.