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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows can be plagued by a variety of problems including draughts, rattles and poor insulation. With a little care, they can be restored to a higher level of performance.
First, cut off the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a container with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older structures, but they require regular maintenance. They can be affected by issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.
Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside the sash.
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 into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant.
If a gap is preventing the windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it has a tendency to rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of windows.
When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. More suggestions can be transferred to new runners that will ensure a better fit and operation of the window.
In older structures, the gap between frames and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive V-strips, but it is crucial to account for this when cutting and measuring the material.
A strip must be cut to the height of the sash, with an additional inch to allow for movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. It is also essential to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. These windows are gorgeous, but they can be susceptible to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are common issues. The rotting of frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If you encounter any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is more costly than replacing the sash however, it can restore your sash's look and function to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. 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). In addition, it is recommended to put in brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.
If you require a new sash, it can be made from like-for-like designs to match the frame of the previous one and preserve the style of your home's historic design. This is especially crucial for listed homes where any modifications made to the windows will require planning permission.
Before you put the new window in before installing it, make sure you examine its metal tabs with those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash will not fit in the slots of the window frame.
It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each choice will require a different degree and amount of expertise. If a large portion of the glass in a sash is missing then replacing it will be the better alternative. However when the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is decaying, a repair may be the better option.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, but deterioration will eventually cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues usually suggest replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are other ways to improve sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draughtproofing and secondary glazing.
It's important to consider the extent of a problem, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and is usually able to be resolved without ripping out the whole frame. It is usually possible to repair a weak seal with a few simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are extremely complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common issues such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. Many homeowners do not want to remove the window frame to repair these issues. For these reasons, many choose to work with a professional.
Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or make them more up-to-date with modern energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and installing secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss from the window. It is also possible to add a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.
To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally, remove the sashweights from the bottom of the cavity for weight. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with a putty blade. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall the upper part of the sash.
window repair is crucial for homeowners to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages however, the original features in an older home can add character and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape can help lower energy costs. Sash windows can be susceptible to rattles and drafts. This could result in higher energy bills and even damage to the frame and sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism that slides can be slack or become draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals since they require extensive removal. However, with the right tools and know-how it is possible to repair old windows using sash. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings just in front of the lower window sash. Next, remove the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the weight balancing, that is a massive lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and held by a rope. To keep the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.
When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid puncturing the weight that is balancing.
Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads used for parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.