Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with various issues that include rattles and draughts. They may also be poorly insulation. With a little effort they can be restored to their original performance.
First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag that has a label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and drafts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash frame are the main source of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to reduce the air leakage inside a shutter.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking in the wood, rotting, and mould growth. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These strips of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can rip, and it can affect the appearance of windows.
It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on 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 an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older buildings, the gap between frame and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and placed to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can be rusty. Also, use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are susceptible to problems. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glass bars or faulty weights can create a mess. When these issues arise, it's time for an sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is more expensive option than simply replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than the original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is re-glazing 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 in order to minimize rattling and improve insulation.
If a replacement sash is required, it can be made using the same design to match your existing frame. This will maintain the heritage style of your house. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.
Check the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.
It is important to decide if you want to repair or replace a damaged window, as each choice will require a different level and amount of expertise. If double glazing repair Marlow of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is an option. But in the event that the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has been rotting then a repair will be the better option.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only feasible solution. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is important to determine the severity of a problem, as it may not be feasible to replace the entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and is typically a solution without ripping out the whole frame. It is often possible to fix a poor seal using a couple of simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows feature a complicated design with many moving parts. It can be difficult to fix common issues like cracked panes or snapped sash cables. Solving these issues usually requires removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to take on themselves. Because of this, many choose to work with a professional.
A professional can help restore sash windows to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping from the window. It is also possible to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin a repair start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Place the hardware in a secure place. The heat gun will soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
Repair
The choice to replace or repair the sash window is an important one for homeowners. Although modern replacements offer numerous benefits but the original features of an older home give character and value to the property and are usually cheaper to fix than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can help reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows can be susceptible 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 for sliding could be slack or draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional, as they require extensive removal. With the right tools and experience it's possible for you to repair old sash window 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, 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 now time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity and is secured by cords. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
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 a utility knife. 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 inserting the upper sash on top of its track, followed by the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash cords or chains and attach the sash pulleys.