Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years may have many issues such as rattles and draughts. They could also be poorly insulated. A little care can often restore them to a top level of performance.
First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and remove the upper sash, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require care. They can be affected by issues such as wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window 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 trigger noise reduction and rattling. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing.
A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can lead to the leaking of moisture the wood, rotting, and mould growth. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze might be required when a gap is preventing windows from opening and shutting effortlessly. These strips of bronze are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.
It is important to measure the entire window opening before installing an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the meeting rail and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fitting and better operation of the window.
In older buildings, the gap between frame and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is essential to consider this when cutting and measuring the material.
A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, with an extra inch on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to match the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass may rust. Also, make sure to use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, these windows are susceptible to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are typical issues. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as well as broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time for a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, but it will bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level in its original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as 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 fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.
If window repairs near me for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in, it's best to check the metal tabs against the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different sizes, the new sash will not fit into the window frame slots.
If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between replacement or repair, because each kind of work will involve a different level of expertise and cost. For instance, if a sash window has a significant piece of glass that is missing, then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be better.
Replacement
While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, the deterioration of the windows can cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. This is why replacing sash windows is often the only solution to these problems. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, such as installing draught proofing and secondary glazing.
Take note of the severity of the issue. It may not be necessary or even appropriate to replace the window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and can usually be solved without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues like 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 on their own. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to stop heat from escaping through the window. It is also possible to install a brush pile strip to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.
To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
The choice of replacing or repairing the sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages however, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can also reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track or become draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of window sash to a professional, as they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and remove the bottom sash. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight, that is a massive iron cylinder that is encased in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops using an utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.