20 Fun Facts About Sash Windows Repair

Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little care can often bring them back to a high standard of performance.
First, remove the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take out any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a bag with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings, however they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to problems like cracked putty, wet rot and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing, repairing or sealing them.
The gaps between sash and frame are the primary source of draughts. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage inside a Sash.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is an issue that is frequent. This can cause the leaking of moisture and rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. The gap can be closed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze might be required if a gap prevents the windows from closing and opening smoothly. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option but it can tear, and can detract from the appearance of windows.
It is crucial to determine the size of the window opening before installing replacement sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail that connects them and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.
In older structures, the gap between sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is crucial to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch extra on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut square and positioned so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to make use of stainless steel screws as brass can rust, and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant historical feature in many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to issues. Common problems include rattling, draughts or sticking. And rotting frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can add to the inconvenience. If these issues occur, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good, if not superior to its original state. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and repairing any rot-related damage. 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's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the rattling.
If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made using the same style to match your old frame. This will help preserve the heritage style of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes made to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If home-page are different shapes the new sash will not fit properly into the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to repair or replace the damaged window, since each choice will require a different level and level of knowledge. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing, replacing it would be a better alternative. If the glass is damaged in a small region or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be more appropriate.
Replacement
While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues usually suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance rather than replacing them. This includes the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
Take note of the severity of the problem. It may not be necessary or even suitable to replace windows. Foggy glass for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be fixed 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 with many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems like broken panes or sash cables that have snapped. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to take on themselves. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.
A professional can help restore sash windows back to their original glory or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat from the window. It is also possible to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling and reduce drafts.
To start a repair project take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights and the bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
Repair
The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is an important one for homeowners. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window sash to a professional, as it requires a lot of dismantling. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:
Getting the window to come apart begins by removing any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, take out the sash at the bottom. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them so that they cannot be pulled back by the weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and supported by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using an hammer and then sacrifice the weight.
When the sashes are untied, clean out the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and strip any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. Reattach the stops once the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to damage the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by inserting 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 reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash chains or cords and install the sash pulleys.