Guide to Repairing & Painting Sash Windows

Classic timber sash windows have a unique, timeless appearance and instantly add character to properties of all shapes and sizes. With so many modern homes being fitted with uPVC casement windows, sash windows are an eye catching focal point and have a quaint vintage charm. Unfortunately, original timber sash windows require regular maintenance to stay in top condition and can ruin the appearance and thermal performance of your home if not properly cared for. To restore your home’s original windows to their former glory, simply follow this repair and painting advice from the Sashes of Surrey window experts.

Common Sash Window Problems

‌Wooden sash windows are a beautiful property feature, but timber frames can become damaged over the years and may need to be restored. Common issues associated with sash windows include:

· Broken cords

· Water damaged/loose corner joints

· Flaking frame paintwork

· Broken glazing panels

· Failed seal/putty

Traditional sash windows often only feature single glazing and use a pulley and weight mechanism to slide open and close. Older windows were not always built with weather resistant materials and can be prone to rot and warping issues.

‌If your sash windows are looking a little worse for wear, but you don’t want to replace them with more contemporary profiles, there are steps you can take to repair the damage and give the frames a new lease of life.

‌How To Repair Sash Windows

The type of sash window repair work you need to perform will depend on the condition of your windows and the extent of the damage. For example, if the timber sash window frames have become rotten and distorted, replacing them may be the most appropriate course of action. That being said, restoring damaged frames is often the most cost-effective option.

Here are our expert tips for repairing sash windows:

‌· Apply new putty – To stop water ingress in its tracks, you need to ensure your timber sash windows are watertight and the frames are protected. If you have started to notice rot or the wood losing its shape, you need to remove the sash from the frame and carefully take out the glass.

· ‌You will now have clear access to the window opening and can scrape away the underperforming putty. Clean any debris out of the joints and scrape away the old sealant. This is also a good time to remove any rotten wood.

‌· Now it’s time to apply a new, water tight seal. Use a top quality putty and repair any gaps in the wood with epoxy resin.

‌· Lubricate the moving parts – To keep your timber sash windows in full working order, it is important to remember to oil all the moving mechanisms at least once a year. Often a sticky window can be quickly repaired with a splash of WD40.

‌· Replace damaged glass – Small cracks in glass panes can be temporarily fixed with a strong adhesive or heavy duty tape. However, a small crack can become a big problem over time and negatively impact the performance of your sash windows. With the help of a professional (or not if you have the required DIY skills), you can replace the glazing without having to purchase a whole new sash profile.

· Fix the hardware – Original timber sash windows are operated with a pulley system, and old cords can break over time. If this sounds familiar, you will need to carefully remove the old cord and install a new one in its place. Tightening screws around the frame and adding lubricant to the locks will also help to keep your sash windows functioning correctly.

Top Tips For Painting Sash Windows

Flaking paint on timber sash windows can be a real eyesore and ruin the overall appearance of your home. If the paint is flaking away from your timber frames, it won’t be long before water makes its way into the wood and causes further damage. However repainting sash windows can restore their beautiful looks and prevent weather related damage in the future.

If your timber sash windows need a lick of paint, we don’t recommend coating them with any old emulsion and hoping for the best. Before you repaint your sash windows, read our expert tips and ensure you purchase the correct materials.

Step By Step Guide To Repainting Timber Sash Windows

· Remove all hardware from the frames, including handles and locks.

· Sand down the timber frames, carefully removing old paint if it’s in irreparable condition and create a smooth surface.

· When there are several layers of old paint, and the proper functioning of the sash is impacted, you will need to use an appropriate paint stripper to remove the build up. Always read manufacturer instructions carefully and be cautious when applying paint stripping chemicals.

· If the existing paint is in good condition, ‘rough it up’ with sandpaper, but don’t strip it all back.

· Use an external paint to paint all parts of the timber frames. If you use a high quality wood paint, you will only need to freshen up the frames once every 5 years.

· Due to the way sash windows function, care must be taken when painting to ensure the sashes don’t become stuck inside the frame. The best approach to painting these windows is to pull the top sash all the way down and push the bottom sash up until it is above the other sash.

· Next, paint all parts of the lower sash that you can reach and coat the top and bottom meeting rails, the glazing bars and the bottom section of the stiles. Next, paint the inner sill and the lowest section of the pulley stiles. Once the paint has dried, you will need to swap the position of the sashes and paint the remaining parts of the timber frames.

· Do not paint the area around the pulley stiles that are covered when the sashes are closed, as this can cause sticking issues.

· Sash windows can be painted in the frame or removed for easier application.

If all of the above sounds like too much hard work, you can choose to replace outdated sash windows with modern uPVC profiles. Contemporary sash windows are made from robust and weatherproof uPVC whilst maintaining the authentic and traditional look of sash windows. These durable frames will not distort or discolour like timber and will stay looking their best for many years to come. If you want to replace instead of restore your sash windows, get in touch with the Sashes of Surrey experts today.

Transform Your Home with Sashes of Surrey!

Sashes of Surrey supplies and installs market leading uPVC sash windows in Surrey and the surrounding areas. We offer many designs of sash windows, and each design can be customised to suit your style preferences with numerous colour choices, finishes, window hardware, and several authentic decorative features.

‌Sashes of Surrey windows are all made from durable uPVC, and while they imitate the look of traditional timber frames, they do not suffer from the same performance and maintenance issues.

‌Contact the Sashes of Surrey team today to learn more about our low maintenance, beautifully crafted sash windows. Get in touch by calling 01276 748300 or send us a message.

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Categories: Sashes Of Surrey