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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement Older sash windows may be plagued by a variety of issues including draughts rattles and poor insulation. A little attention can often restore them to their original performance. First, remove the paint seal from the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. Store the hardware in a container with an identification label. Sealing Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they do need maintenance and can be subject to issues like cracks in putty, wet rot, and draughts. It is possible to reduce energy loss and improve the efficiency of windows made of sash by replacing or repairing them, or sealing them. The gaps between sash frame are the primary source of drafts. They can also lead to rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing can all be used to minimize the air leakage in the shutter. A common problem is a gap between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This can cause moisture leaking in the wood, rotting and the growth of mould. The gap can be sealed with caulking made of polyurethane or silicone or foam sealant. If a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening easily, it could be necessary to install new spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is another option however it can tear, and can make a difference to the appearance of a window. When installing replacement runners for sash it is essential to take full measurements of the window opening. It is best to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail that connects them and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to the new runners, which will help ensure a good fitting and better operation of the window. In older buildings there is a larger gap between the sash and the frame around the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material. A strip must be cut to the length of the sash. There should be an additional inch each side to allow for movement. It should be cut squarely and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass can get rusty. Also, make sure you use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue. Refurbishment The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. The most frequent issues are rattling, stuck or draughty windows. The rotting of frames and meeting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could create a mess. If you experience any of these problems it's time to replace or repair your sash. Refurbishment may be more expensive than replacing the sash, but it will bring back the appearance and function to the same standard as its original state. It involves re-lining the meeting rail and sash box using traditional putty, and then repairing any rot damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as the re-glazing process 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 strip to prevent the noise of rattling. If a new sash is needed it can be constructed with the same design to match the frame you have. This will maintain the heritage style of your home. This is especially important for listed properties where any modifications made to windows will require planning permission. Compare the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash before installing it (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may not fit into the window frame slots. If a window is damaged, it's essential to choose between repair or replacement since each kind of repair will require a different degree of expertise and price. For example, if a sash window has a large chunk of glass missing then replacement is the best option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill has begun to decay or rotting, then a repair could be better. Replacement Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good shape, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues typically point to an inevitable replacement as the only feasible solution. However, there are ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draught proofing as well as secondary glazing. Think about the scope of the problem. It may not be necessary or even necessary to replace windows. A glass that is foggy for instance, is usually caused by the sash, and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. A leaky seal can often be remedied by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full frame tear-out and replacement. Sash windows are surprisingly complicated in their design and come with many moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to remedy some common problems, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. The solution to these issues typically involves removal of the window frame which isn't a job most homeowners want to tackle on their own. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional. Specialists can restore sash window frames to their original glory or bring them up-to-date with modern energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat from the window. It can also be helpful to put in a brush pile strip, to stop rattling, and reduce drafts. To begin a repair project start by removing the window stops (the moldings in front of the lower sash). Then, loosen the staff and pull the lower window sash. Remove the chains or cords that are on both sides. Lastly remove the sashweights from the bottom weight cavity. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Heat gun to soften the old, hardened filler or putty. Scrape it away with the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper part of the sash. Repair It is important for homeowners to make a choice on whether to repair or replace their sash windows. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older house can add authenticity and value. They are also less expensive to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows can be prone to rattles and drafts. 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 that slides can be slack or even draughty. It is recommended to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as it requires extensive dismantling. With the right tools and experience it's possible to fix an old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics: Getting the window to come apart begins with the removal of any security fittings on the front of the lower sash. Next, remove the staff bead, then pull out the bottom sash. Remove the cords and chains from both sides, and knot them in such a way that they won't be pulled back by the weights attached. It's time to take off the upper sash. The sash stops must be removed, a thin vertical wood strip that holds the sash. Also, remove any hardware that has been painted. Unscrew window repair Weybridge to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large lead or iron cylinder enclosed in a concealed cavity and secured by rope. To prevent the sash from falling into the void pierce it with an hammer and then sacrifice the weight. When the sashes are untied Clean the jamb and rails that meet, remove the glazing cords and sash bars, and strip any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been reinstalled. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight. Reassemble the sash by putting the upper sash on top of its track, then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Then, reconnect the sash chain or cords and re-attach the axles for the sash pulleys.