Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They might also be poorly constructed to be insulated. With a little effort they can be restored to a high level of performance.
First, cut off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Then remove the staff bead and take the upper sash out and remove the cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and can be subject to problems like wet rot, cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.
The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of drafts. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to stop air leaks from the sash window, such as sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to prevent sideways rattling. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option, but it can tear, and can affect the appearance of windows.
It is essential to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects it, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners that will ensure the best fit and function of the window.
In older buildings the gap between the frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring 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 trimmed square and placed in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant, historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Common issues include rattling stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window as good, if not superior to its original state. Refurbishment involves lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing 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). In addition, it is recommended to install brush pile weather strips to reduce rattle and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash is needed it can be constructed using the same style to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your house. This is particularly important for buildings that are listed, as any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in place, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit in the slots of the window frame.
It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different degree and amount of knowledge. For example when a sash window has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best option. However when the glass is damaged in a tiny section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be the better option.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these problems. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
Think about the scope of the issue. It might not be necessary or appropriate to replace a window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and is typically a solution without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are quite complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. It can be difficult to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame in order to repair these issues. For these reasons, many opt to hire a specialist.
A specialist can help restore sash windows to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. window repair may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping out of the window. It may also be beneficial to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights and the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
It is essential for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements can provide many advantages however, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide personality and value to the property and are often cheaper to fix than replacing them. Inspecting them regularly can help lower the cost of energy. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts and condensation. These problems can lead to increased cost of energy and damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The sliding mechanism may become sloppy or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of a window sash to a professional because it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and know-how it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:
Making the window come apart starts by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and knot them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's time to take off the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and anchored by a rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice 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 employing a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops once the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash place the top sash onto its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.