Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years can have various issues that include rattles and draughts. They may also be poorly insulated. With a little attention they can be restored to a higher level of performance.
First, cut off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Then, take off the staff bead and pull out the upper sash, taking off chains or cords and storing the hardware in a labeled bag.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require maintenance and can be subject to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty, and drafts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them the windows, repairing or sealing them.
Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, special 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 sill and the sash. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required if a gap prevents the windows from opening and shutting smoothly. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and may alter the look of your window.
When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash 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 the frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is important to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip must be cut to the width of the sash, and with an extra inch each side to allow to allow movement. It should be trimmed squarely and positioned in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can create a mess. When these issues arise, it's time to consider a sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash however, it can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level in its original condition. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. It also involves re-painting the frame with timber and reglazing 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). Finally, it's recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.
If a new sash is required it can be constructed using the same design to match the frame you have. Stevenage double glazing repairs will preserve the heritage style of your property. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in, it's best to compare its metal tabs to those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.
It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair a damaged window, as each option will require a different level and cost of expertise. For example when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then replacing it is the best option. If the glass is damaged in a tiny area or a sill is rotting and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good shape, but deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing them is often the only option to solve these issues. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.
Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even suitable to replace the window. A glass that is foggy, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows are a complicated design that has many moving parts. It can be challenging to fix common issues like cracked panes or snapped sash cable. Most homeowners don't want to take apart the window frame to fix these problems. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons.
Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or update them to meet the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Store the hardware in a safe place. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler using a heat gun, and scrape it away with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
The choice to replace or repair a sash window is a major one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older home can provide authenticity and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals since it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and skills it's possible to fix an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
Making the window come apart begins by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead and take the sash off the bottom. Then, pull out the chains or cords on both sides and knot them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is concealed in a cavity and is supported by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint from the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to puncture the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are aligned properly with the frame, and then reconnect the parting beads if needed. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.