window repairs and Replacement Sash windows that are older than 20 years can have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They might also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. With a little effort they can be repaired to a high level of performance. First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has the label. Sealing Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to issues like wet rot, cracked putty, and draughts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of windows with sash by replacing them or repairing them, or sealing them. Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage in a shutter. A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame is a common problem. This can cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and growth of mold. The gap can be filled with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant. Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze may be necessary if a gap prevents windows from closing and opening easily. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash to stop sideways rattle, and they can be purchased at DIY stores. Weatherstripping made of tubular vinyl can also be used, however it is more likely to tear and can alter the appearance of your window. When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended to measure from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window. In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash and the frame at the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof by using a self-adhesive V-strips, but it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material. A piece of material should be cut to the height of the sash, and with an additional inch each side to allow to allow movement. It should be trimmed square and positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass will be rusty. Also, use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue. Refurbishment The sash is a stunning historical feature of a lot of homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Draughts, rattling or leaks are all common problems. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glass bars or weights that are not working properly can add to the inconvenience. If these issues occur, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash. Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but can bring back the appearance and functionality to the same level that it was in its original form. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. 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). It is also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to minimize rattling. If a new sash is needed, it can be made using the same style to match the frame you have. This will help preserve the heritage style of your house. This is particularly important for listed properties where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission. Before putting the new window in It is recommended to examine its metal tabs with the tabs on the old sash (see below). If they're different shapes and sizes, the new sash will not fit in the window frame slots. It's important to decide whether to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each will require a different degree and level of knowledge. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing, then replacing it will be the better alternative. However, if the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is rotting then a repair will be more appropriate. Replacement While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working order, deterioration can eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows that go beyond replacing them, like installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing. It is important to determine the severity of the problem, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. A foggy glass problem, for example is typically caused by the sash, and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than tearing out the entire frame and reinstalling it. Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and have lots of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want remove the window frame in order to fix these problems. Because of this, many choose to work with a professional. A specialist can assist in restoring windows made of sash back to their original glory, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing to stop heat through the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and stop the window from shaking. To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords on both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off with a putty blade. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys by using Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads and then reinstall the upper sash. Repair It is crucial for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways, but the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can help reduce energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash. Sash windows are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track or become draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the window frame and is best left to a professional. With the right tools and experience, it is possible to fix old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics: The process of bringing the window 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 chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any hardware that has been painted. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden inside a cavity and supported by a cord. To prevent the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with nails and remove the weight. After the sashes have been removed, clean out the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and remove any paint off the sash stops with an utility knife. After the sashes have been put back in place, reattach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the weight that is balancing. To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned correctly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and then re-attach the axles of the sash pulleys.
window repairs
