Sash windows older than 20 years old can be afflicted with various issues such as rattles and draughts. They might also be poorly insulation. With a little care they can be restored to their original performance.
First, knock off the paint seal from the window stop with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a container with an identification label.
Sealing
Sash windows look stunning in older buildings, but they require maintenance. They are susceptible to problems like wet-rot cracked putty and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.
Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and the frame. They can also lead to rattles and reduce sound-proofing. Different methods can be employed to limit air leaks within a sash window, including sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting wood and growth of mold. The gap can be sealed by caulking made of silicone or polyurethane or foam sealant.
Installing new sash runner or spring bronze could be required in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening easily. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option but it can rip, and it can detract from the appearance of windows.
It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing the replacement sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will ensure a proper fitting and better operation of the window.
In older buildings, the gap between frames and sash is typically wider around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into account when cutting and measuring material.
A piece of material should be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an additional inch on each side to allow for movement. The strip should be cut to a square shape and then positioned so that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can be rusty. Also, make sure you use a high quality silicone or polyurethane glue.
Refurbishment
The Sash window is a beautiful, historic feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. And rotting frames and connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can create a mess. If you experience any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment is a more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, but it will restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also includes 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). In addition, it is recommended to install brush pile weather strips in order to minimize rattle and increase insulation.
If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain your property's heritage style. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in, it's best to examine its metal tabs with those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If they're different sizes and sizes, the new sash will not fit into the window frame slots.
It is important to decide if you want to replace or repair a damaged window, as each will require a different degree and cost of knowledge. For example when a sash window has a large chunk of glass that is missing, then replacement is the best choice. If the glass is only damaged in a small region or a sill is beginning to rot or rotting, then a repair could be better.
Replacement
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass may also occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible 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 severity of a problem, as it may not be appropriate or even practical to replace an entire window. For instance, a fogging glass issue typically occurs within the sash itself and can usually be solved without tearing out the entire frame. A poor seal can also be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.
Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. The majority of homeowners don't want disassemble the window frame in order to repair these issues. Many homeowners decide to work with a professional due to these reasons.
A professional can help restore windows with sash 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 avoid heat loss through the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip in order to minimize drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin window repairs take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and remove the lower window sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Finally, disconnect the sash weights from bottom of the cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old filler or hardened putty with a heat gun and scrape it off with a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reattach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
It is crucial for homeowners to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements have many benefits, but the original features of an older home can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Inspecting them regularly can lower the energy cost. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can lead to increased costs for energy and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The sliding mechanism may become sloppy or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive removal of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. With the right tools and knowledge it's possible to repair an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides and tie them to prevent them being pulled back into the frame by the weights that are attached. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that supports the sash) and loosen any painted-covered hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away in a cavity, and supported by an elastic cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
After the sashes have been removed, clean the jambs and rails that connect them. Remove the glazing bars as well as the cords for the sash. Then, using a utility blade, remove any paint from the sash stop. After the sashes have been put returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk damaging the weight that is balancing.
Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash first on its track, followed by the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.
