Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows older than 20 years may have many issues that include rattles and draughts. They might also be inefficiently insulated. A little care can often restore them to a high standard of performance.

First, remove the paint seal from the window stop with a utility knife. Then remove the staff bead, then take the upper sash out, taking off cords or chains and storing hardware in a labeled bag.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance. They are susceptible to issues like wet-rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the windows sash is an effective way to reduce these problems and improve energy efficiency.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also cause noise reduction and rattle. Various methods can be used to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products, and secondary glazing.

A common issue is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, rotting it and the growth of mold. The gap can be sealed with silicone or polyurethane caulking or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner or spring bronze could be necessary in the event that a gap blocks windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These are strips of bronze that are stapled or nailed into the edges of the lower sash in order to prevent sideways rattle. They are available at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is more likely to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

When installing replacement sash runners It is crucial to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal line on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom of 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 frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a self-adhesive V-strip, but it is crucial to consider this when measuring and cutting the material.

A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an additional inch for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass may rust. Also, make sure to use the highest quality polyurethane or silicone glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning historic feature in many homes. These windows are gorgeous however they are susceptible to problems. Common issues include rattling stickiness or draughts. The rotted frames and the rails that meet, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you encounter any of these problems, it is time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash but can restore your sash's look and functionality to the same level as its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of the meeting rail as well as the sash box with traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by rot. It also involves 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 put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling.

If a replacement sash is needed, it can be made with the same design to match the frame you have. This will preserve the style and character of your home. This is especially important for buildings that are listed, as any changes to the windows require planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window to the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash will not fit properly into the window frame slots.

It's important to decide whether to replace or repair windows that are damaged, as each option will require a different level and amount of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it is the better alternative. If the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is beginning to rot or rotting, then a repair could be better.

Replacement

While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts or even broken glass. These issues usually lead to a replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve the performance of sash windows than simply replacing them. They can be improved by installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even suitable to replace a window. A foggy glass problem, for example, is usually caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be remedied with a few simple fixes instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement.


Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be difficult to remedy some common problems such as snapped sash cords or broken panes. Resolving these issues often requires removal of the window frame which isn't something most homeowners would want to tackle on their own. Many homeowners choose to hire a specialist for these reasons.

Specialists can restore sash window frames back to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with the latest energy standards. This could include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to prevent heat from getting out of the window. It can also be helpful to install a brush pile strip, to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.

To begin a repair start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Next, remove the staff bead and take off the lower sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides. Then take the sashweights out of the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape window repairs near me with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys with Teflon or silicone spray. Install the parting beads again and then reinstall the upper sash.

Repair

It is important for the homeowner to decide whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add the character and value. They are also less expensive to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good shape will also help you save money on energy. Sash windows are susceptible to drafts and rattles. This can result in higher energy bills and damage the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be a challenge to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could become dislodged or even draughty. It is best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as they require extensive removal. With the right tools and skills, it is possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to start:

Remove any security fittings that are in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides, and tie them in a way that they can't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's now time to take out the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that is used to hold the sash) and remove any painted-covered hardware. Reverse the sash to reveal the weight. It is a large iron or lead cylinder that is concealed inside a cavity and held by a cord. To stop the sash from falling into the void, pierce it with a nail and then let the weight go.

Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and scrape off any paint from the sash stops using an utility knife. When the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk cutting the balancing weight.

Reassemble the sash by inserting the upper sash first into its track, followed by the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops are in the correct alignment with the frame, and reattach the beads for parting if necessary. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.