Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues, including draughts and rattles. They could also be inefficiently insulated. A little care can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop using a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with the label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, however they require maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.
Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to noise reduction and rattle. There are a variety of methods to reduce air leaks in the sash window, such as sealing beads, specialist 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. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
If a gap is preventing windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to put in new sash runners or spring bronze. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, but it is more likely to tear and may alter the look of your window.
It is crucial to measure the entire window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rail that connects it and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners, which will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.
In older structures the gap between the sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is essential to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.
A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, and with an extra inch to allow movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. These windows are beautiful however they are susceptible to problems. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. If these issues occur, it's time for repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash, however, it can restore the appearance and function to the same level in its original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by the rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as the re-glazing process 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 install brush pile weather strips to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.
If double glazing repairs Leatherhead for a new sash arises it can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is particularly crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission.
Before putting the new window on before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they are different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each will require a different level and amount of expertise. For example the case of a sash windows that has a large piece of glass missing, replacement is the best option. However, if the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill has begun rotting then a repair will be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners want to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. But there are ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
It is important to determine the severity of the issue, since it might not be feasible to replace a complete window. For instance, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and is typically a solution without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often 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 with many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Many homeowners do not want to disassemble the window frame to repair these issues. For these reasons, many opt to hire a professional.
A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from rattling.
To begin a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull out the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Lastly take the sashweights out of the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Use a heat gun to soften old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a putty blade. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is crucial for homeowners to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits, the original features of an older home give authenticity and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good condition can help reduce energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. This can lead to higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The sliding mechanism may be slack or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and is best left to the professionals. With the right tools and experience it's possible to repair an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
The process of bringing the window apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, take out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Take out the sash stops, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any painted-covered hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed inside a hidden compartment and held by a rope. To stop the sash falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent puncturing the weight that is balancing.
To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and then reconnect the beads for parting if necessary. Finally, reattach the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.