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Repairing sash windows can be a tougher job than you expected, but we’re happy to give you our advice - even though we think that an upgrade is a better solution.
Maintaining the authenticity of historic homes is often the reason why homeowners prefer to try repairing their windows instead of replacing them. All the same, it is possible to achieve a very close match to the original using modern materials that won’t require as much maintenance.
Refurbishing sash windows is a big project, but if you’d like to try it, you can use this article as a basic how-to guide that prepares you for the project.
Typical Reasons Why You Need to Repair or Replace Sash Windows
Reasons why you might need to repair sash windows range from rotting or cracked frames to windows that won’t open and close properly because they’re swollen or warped. Cracked or peeling paint could be spoiling the look of your home, and you know it’s time to freshen things up.
Alternatively, there may have been an attempted or actual break-in with damage to one or more windows. Should you put everything back as it was or get new windows? The answer is up to you. Hoping to give fixing them up a try? Roll up your sleeves! It’s time to get started with the sash window repair process.
Repairing Sash Windows
Ironmongery
The various metal parts associated with a sash window may corrode, loosen, or even snap. This includes sash lifts (the handle you use to raise the window), fasteners that hold the window frame in place, pulley wheels, or window locks. At times, it’s possible to repair sash windows’ ironmongery by tightening a few screws or by replacing the ironmongery itself.
However, if the ironmongery is attached to a weakened frame, or you’re forced to drill new holes to fit replacement parts, the window assembly may no longer be as strong as it should be. Remember: a chain is as strong as its weakest link. For example, great window locks in a weakened frame might not secure your home as well as you’d like.
Sash Window Repairs: Step by Step
Prepare to board it up
The first thing to know is that a DIY sash window repair isn’t going to be done in a few hours. And, if you’re getting workmen in to do the job, you’ll find that sash window repair costs can be high because the task is so time-consuming. Be ready to board up the window until the job is done. Ordinary plywood will do.
Assess the condition of the sash window
Before you begin, assess the integrity of the sash window. Layers of paint can cover some very serious damage, so poke around with a screwdriver. If you find soft-seeming patches, you’re looking at a fairly extensive repair job. Rot or corrosion doesn’t always show on the surface, so you may not be aware of the full extent of it. If you find rotten patches, chip away at them, following the grain of the wood to look for more.
Remove the sashes
If you still think you can repair your sash window rather than replace it, remove the sashes from the frame. You may need a pry bar and a hammer to break through layers of paint and the “staff beads” at the bottom of the frame that hold the sash in place. They’ll probably break in the process, but you can replace them.
Remove the glass
Begin by placing the window on a workbench, covering the glass surfaces with tape. This will keep you safer in case the glass breaks. Naturally, you’re going to try getting it out in one piece. Remove the beading on the outside. Once again, don’t worry about breaking it. It’s replaceable. Remove the putty or sealant using a blade or putty knife, being careful in case any metal has been used to secure the glass, and lift it out.
Chisel out the rot
Before you remove the paint, you can begin chiselling out rotten material. This helps you to see where you’ll need to patch things up, whether you need to replace any parts of the window - or even reconsider and replace the whole window instead.
Remove paint, repair, sand and prime
Now, it’s time to remove all the old paint. It’s likely that there’ll be several layers of it to get through. Once you’re done with the paint stripper, inspect your work to see if you’ve missed any more rot.
If it’s a wooden frame (aluminium is also quite common), you can splice in bits of wood to replace the rotten portions you’ve chiselled out. Seal it in place with resin. Smaller voids can be patched using wood filler. Sand everything down and apply primer.
Replace the glass
Replace the glass in the window, securing it with new beading, putty and sealant. You may want to replace old glass with energy efficient and soundproof panes, particularly if it is very old. This may mean modifying your sash window to hold thicker glass.
Paint, seal, and replace hardware
It’s time for the finishing touches. Finish your window with paint and sealant and put all the hardware back. Once you’re done with the frame, you can reinstall the window. Remember to fit draught proofing to keep out winter chills.
The Case for Replacing Sash Windows
Low Maintenance and Smooth Operation
Modern materials are much lower maintenance (no more paint jobs every few years), and bespoke sash windows can look as authentic as classic ones. Plus they’ll work far more smoothly and keep on doing so since they won’t swell, warp or crack.
Energy Efficient and Soundproof
New windows will be aligned with modern standards for energy efficiency, saving you heating costs. As an added bonus, they’ll be more soundproof, keeping street noise out of your home.
Safe and Secure
Possibly the most compelling reason to choose a replacement, your new windows can help you keep your home safer. They’ll be equipped with highly effective locks and metal-reinforced inners covered with highly durable engineered wood. You can choose options with security glass that keeps threats outdoors - or even opt for bulletproof glass if you prefer.
Made in the UK for You
Although you know how to go about repairing sash windows, you should first stop and think about replacing them with a custom-made alternative.
At Stronghold Security Doors, we don’t stop at securing doors. Our customers love our bespoke security sash windows. And the installation? Let’s put it this way: you won’t have to live with boarded-up windows for days. Our teams get the job done quickly, neatly, and efficiently.
Wondering whether to take the plunge and improve your home’s security at once? Talk to us. You may well find that high-quality workmanship and materials that are made to last are the ideal investment in your home. Love that curb appeal and sleep soundly in your secure home.
