Older sash windows may be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little attention can often bring them back to a top level of performance.
First, knock off the seal on the paint of the window stop using a utility knife. Then remove the staff bead, then remove the upper sash by removing cords or chains and storing equipment in a bag labeled.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they require maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective method to eliminate these issues and increase energy efficiency.
The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to limit air leaks within windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialty products, and secondary glazing.
A gap between the top and bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can cause moisture leaking in and rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap is hindering windows from closing and opening without a hitch, it might be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to prevent sideways rattling. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option, but it can rip, and it can affect the appearance of windows.
It is important to measure the entire window opening prior to installing the an alternative sash runner. It is best to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash down to the sill. These measurements can then be transferred to new runners which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older structures the gap between frame and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using strips of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However, it is important to take this into account when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip should be cut to the width of the sash. There should be an extra inch each side to allow to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive historical feature of a lot of homes. These windows are beautiful but they can also be prone to problems. The most frequent issues are rattling, draughts or sticking. The rotted frames and the rails that connect them, as well as broken glazing bars, faulty frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. 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, but it will bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to the same or better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box using traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. Re-painting the frame of the timber is also included, as is re-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). In addition, it is recommended to fit brush pile weather strips to reduce rattling and improve insulation.
If a replacement sash is needed it can be constructed using the same style to match your existing frame. This will help preserve the heritage style of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any modifications to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs on the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If they're different sizes the new sash may not fit in the slots of the window frame.
It's important to decide whether to replace or repair the damaged window, since each choice will require a different level and level of knowledge. For instance when a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing, replacement is the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is rotting, then a repair would be better.
Replacement
Although many homeowners want to keep their old windows in good condition, the deterioration of the windows can result in problems like rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. window repair lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. But there are ways to improve the sash windows, beyond simply replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing.
It's important to consider the severity of a issue, since it might not be feasible to replace the entire window. A foggy glass problem, for example is typically caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is often possible to repair a weak seal using a couple of simple solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature a lot of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners want to take on themselves. Many homeowners decide to hire a specialist for these reasons.
A specialist can help restore sash windows back to their original glory, or even bring them up to the latest energy standards. This may include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glazing to stop heat out of the window. It is also possible to add a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin a repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings that are located in front of the lower glass). Then, loosen the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Then remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away using the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.
Repair
The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a major one for the homeowner. Although modern replacements offer many advantages, the original features of an older home give personality and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can reduce the cost of energy. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, 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 mechanism for sliding could be slack or draughty. Repairing a sash window requires extensive dismantling of the frame of the window and should be left to professionals. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to repair old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Getting the window to come apart begins by removing any security fittings in front of the lower sash. Next, take off the staff bead, then remove the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and tie them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights. It's time to remove the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed which is a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a heavy lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a hidden cavity and secured by rope. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then let the weight go.
After the sashes are removed clean the jambs and meet rails. Remove the glazing bars and cords for the sash. Then employing a utility blade take off any paint that is on the sash stop. Reattach the stops after the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and then reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash cords or chains and install the sash pulleys.
