14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Sash Windows Repair
Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with many issues that include rattles and draughts. They could also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. A little care can often restore them to a top level of performance.
First, scrape off the seal of paint from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, 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 look gorgeous in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve the efficiency of energy.
Draughts are usually caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, specialist products, and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage inside a shutter.
A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or between the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can lead to the leaking of moisture, rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing the windows from opening and closing smoothly, it may be necessary to put in new spring bronze or sash runners. These are bronze strips that are stapled or nailed onto the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle, and they can be purchased from DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weatherstripping can also be used, but it tends to rip and can alter the appearance of your window.
When replacing sash runners, it is important to measure the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure an improved fit and performance of the window.
In older structures the gap between the frames and sash is typically larger around the leading edge. It is possible to draught proof with a strip of self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
A strip should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an extra inch each side to allow to allow movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also important to use stainless steel screws since brass can rust and the best quality polyurethane or silicone adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are susceptible to a variety of problems. Common issues include rattling stuck or draughty windows. Also, rotting frames, connecting rails, broken glazing bars or faulty weights can cause a lot of trouble. If you experience any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash.
Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash however, it can restore the appearance and functionality to the same level as its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash boxes with traditional putty and repairing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame 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 install brush pile weather strips to reduce the rattling and increase insulation.
If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain the character of your house. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes to windows will require planning permission.
Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit properly into the slots of the window frame.
If a window is damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, because each type of work will involve a different level of expertise and price. If a significant portion of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be a better alternative. If the glass is only damaged in a small area or a sill is beginning to rot, then a repair would be more appropriate.
Replacement
Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash windows in good shape, but it is inevitable that deterioration will cause problems such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows other than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draughtproofing.
It is crucial to assess the extent of a problem, as it may not be practical to replace an entire window. A foggy glass problem for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a weak seal by making a few easy fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and replacing it.
Sash windows are quite 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. Most homeowners don't want to disassemble the window frame in order to fix these problems. Many homeowners decide to engage a professional for these reasons.
A professional can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor or even bring them up to modern energy standards. window repairs Maldon could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to stop heat from getting out of the window. You can also install a brush-pile strip to reduce drafts and prevent the window from shaking.
To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings on the front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull the lower window sash. Remove the cords or chains on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe position. Soften any old, hardened putty or filler by using a hot gun. Then scrape it away with a knife for putty. 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 homeowners to make a decision on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. While modern replacements provide numerous benefits, the original features of a home that was built earlier provide character and value to the home and are usually cheaper to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are vulnerable 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 are notoriously difficult to open and close and the standard sliding mechanism may become displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash windows requires extensive removal of the window frame, so it's best left to the professionals. With the right tools and experience it's possible to fix an the sash window that is old. Adam shows Jess the basics:
Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the sash at the bottom. Then, remove the chains or cords on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops and a thin wood strip that holds the sash. Also, take off any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and held by cords. To prevent the sash from falling into the void hit it with nails and remove the weight.
When the sashes are untied clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and remove any paint off the sash stops with an utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes are reinstalled. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.
Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are aligned properly with the frame, and reattach the beads that separate if required. Then, reconnect the sash cords or chains and re-attach the sash pulley axles.