Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues including draughts rattles, and poor insulation. A little bit of care can often restore them to their original performance.
First, remove the seal of paint from the window stop using a 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 look stunning in older structures, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them or repairing them, or sealing them.
The gaps between the sash and frame are the main source of drafts. They can also cause rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage within a shutter.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash, and the jamb frame, is an issue that is frequent. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required in the event that a gap blocks the windows from closing and opening smoothly. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to stop sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.
It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the meeting rail and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will ensure a perfect fit and better operation of the window.
In older buildings, the gap between frames and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a variety of problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. Rotting frames and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten can cause issues. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash but it will bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves re-painting the frame of timber 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 the noise of rattling.
If the need for a new sash arises, it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash won't fit properly into the slots of the window frame.
When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between repair or replacement because each kind of work will require a different degree of expertise and price. If a large part of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it would be the better option. However in the event that the glass has been damaged in one small section or a sill has been damaged, a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts or even broken glass. This is why replacing them is often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows that go beyond replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
It is crucial to assess the extent of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. A foggy glass problem, for example, is usually caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame to fix these problems. This is why many opt to hire an expert.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from escaping through the window. You can also add an edge strip for brush-piles to cut down on drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To start a repair project, remove the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall window repair Sutton Coldfield parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
It is essential for homeowners to decide whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Although modern replacements can provide numerous benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide personality and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can also save energy costs. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation. 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 as the traditional sliding mechanism can become dislodged from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to professionals. With the right tools and skills, it is possible for you to repair the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Getting the window to come apart starts with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity, and secured by an elastic cord. To stop the sash falling into the void pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
Once the sashes are free, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid cutting the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Finally, reattach the sash chain or cords and re-install the axles for the sash pulleys.