Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows may suffer from a range of problems including draughts, rattles, and poor insulation. With a little attention they can be repaired to a higher level of performance.
First, scrape off the paint seal from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. The hardware should be stored in a container with the label.
Sealing
Sash windows are gorgeous in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of sash windows by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them.
Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in the shutter.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is an issue that is common. This can lead to moisture leaking in the wood, rotting and the growth of mould. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze may be necessary if a gap prevents windows from closing and opening effortlessly. window repairs Kingston of bronze are stapled or nailed to the lower sash edges in order to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, but it is more likely to tear and can detract the appearance of your window.
When replacing sash runners, it is important to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and a better performance of the window.
In older buildings the gap between the sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash, with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will be rusty. Also, use the highest quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The sash window is an elegant and historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a range of issues. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights can cause issues. If these issues occur, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash, but it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good if not superior to its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by rot. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as well as glazing 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). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to reduce the rattling.
If a replacement sash required it can be constructed using the same design to match your existing frame. This will preserve the style and character of your property. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit correctly into the window frame slots.
If a window has been damaged, it is essential to decide between repair or replacement since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and cost. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing, a replacement will be the best choice. However in the event that the glass is 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 shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only logical solution. There are other ways to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. This includes installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It is crucial to assess the severity of the issue, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A weak seal can often be remedied by a few easy fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are a complicated design with many moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't something the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Because of this, many opt to hire a specialist.
A specialist can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, which will stop heat escaping from the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and stop the window from rattling.
To begin a repair start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead, then remove the lower sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Finally, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away with a knife for putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is essential for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features of an older home can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can lower energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism that slides can become sloppy or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist because they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then take the sash off the bottom. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the attached weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. Unscrew the sash to reveal the weight balancing, which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed inside a hidden compartment and anchored by rope. To stop the sash falling into the void hit it with a nail and sacrifice the weight.
After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and remove any paint from the sash stops using a utility knife. Once the sashes are back in place, you can reattach the stops using nails that are small enough to prevent cutting the weight that is balancing.
To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stops are properly aligned with the frame, and reattach the parting beads if needed. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.