There are typical gaps in sash windows, which can develop over the years, but are mostly easy to fix.
Adjusting the Meeting Rail
Draughts can also occur due to a gap forming along the meeting rail of the sashes. In order to fix this problem the meeting rail can be re-fitted or even shimmied in order to get the sashes to return to their original position.
Replacing Worn Staff Beads
These need to be replaced with new Staff Beads that are similar in size and profile. The new Staff Beads are then fitted into the frame and will hold the lower sash in the channel. This will stop any rattling of the sashes and prevent cold air entering through the gap.
Adding Draught Seals
Brush-pile or compression draught seals are fitted into the parting bead groove between the two sashes. As the sashes close, the draught seal compresses to stop cold air entering the room. The seal does not make the sash stiff to open and close.
Repairing Decayed Frame Corners and Sills
Rotted timber in the frame corners and sills can create the worst of gaps which can’t be effectively sealed. These areas need to be cut back and filled with a suitable repair material (e.g. epoxy or wood filler) or even a new timber splice.
Re-puttying Around the Glass
Re-puttying around the Glass: Old putty has cracked or fallen out allowing air to enter around the panes. The specialists will rake out the old putty and re-bed the glass with fresh linseed-oil putty. This type of putty is flexible and ‘seals’ the frame over the seasons. If you want Sash Window Repair, //www.sashwindowpreservation.co.uk/services/sash-window-repair is a good place to start.
Tackle these five points and most draughty sash windows can be made comfortable without having to replace them.