The Most Significant Issue With Sash Windows Repair, And How You Can Fix It
Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. A little care can often restore them to a top level of performance.
First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a container with a label.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require maintenance and can be subject to problems like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the sash window is an effective method to minimize these issues and increase energy efficiency.
Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. There are a variety of methods to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can cause moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it is prone to rip, and it can affect the appearance of a window.
It is essential to determine the size of the window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older structures, the gap between sash and frame is usually wider around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.
The strip should be cut at the top of the sash and with an inch added on each side to allow movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass may be rusty. Also, use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a variety of problems. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars or weights that are not working properly can create a mess. When these issues arise, it's time for an sash repair or replacement.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same standard as its original state. 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. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as is 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 put in brush pile weather strips to lessen rattle and increase insulation.
If a replacement sash needed It can be made using the same style to match your existing frame. This will preserve the style and character of your home. This is particularly important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Check the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different sizes and sizes, the new sash will not fit inside the window frame slots.
When a window is damaged it is essential to decide between repair or replacement because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. For instance, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then a replacement will be the best choice. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill is rotting and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better.
Replacement
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash windows in good condition, however the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like rattles or draughts. Broken glass can also occur. This is why it's often the only solution to these issues. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It's important to consider the extent of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even feasible to replace a complete window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash itself and can usually be solved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also often be corrected by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are extremely complex in design and have a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to fix common issues such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame to fix these problems. For these reasons, many opt to hire a professional.
A professional can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat escaping from the window. It is also possible to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To start a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Then, remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
Repair
It is essential for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. While modern replacements provide numerous benefits however, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide authenticity and value to the property and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Keeping them in good condition 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 the sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window, so it's best left to a professional. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Making the window come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and then loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed inside a hidden compartment and held by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, hit it with nails and remove the weight.
After the sashes are removed, clean the jambs and the rails that meet. Remove the glazing bars and cords for the sash. Then using a utility knife, remove any paint from the sash stop. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If necessary, reattach any beads used for parting. Then, reconnect window repairs or chains and re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.