Draught Proofing Sash Windows | How To, DIY Tips, & Hiring a Pro

Draught proofing sash windows can be a tricky business. Unlike ordinary, modern uPVC double-glazed windows they are much more likely to get stuck, plus frames are older and more likely to be made of wood; making them more delicate and susceptible to damage during the draught-proofing process. Nevertheless, it is still a cost-effective (see how much it costs to double-glaze a sash window) and unobtrusive way of reducing heat loss in the home. Some suppliers even claim that sash window draught proofing can reduce your wasted heat energy from anything between 33-50% ? which in these tough economic times is definitely not to be sneered at.

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Types of Draught Proofing for Sash Windows

Outlined below are some helpful tips to the different type of draught proofing available for sash windows, which should help you choose what?s best for your home.

• Compression Seals ? compression seals are usually made of an EDPM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber or silicone-gel based material, and are relatively cheap and easy to install on sash windows. These types of seal are, however, only best suited to the most narrow window gaps, so won?t always be the best option for older, larger properties. You should also look out for wet rot that is commonly found on the underside of the main sash frame, as compression seals won?t prove effective if the decay continues ? if the wood is rotting, you?ll probably need to replace the joints in the main frame.
• Wiper Seals ? this type of draught-proof seal is made of a series of thin plastic fibres (or alternatively silicone thermoplastic strips) known as ?brush piles?, and this ready-made ?wiper? ultimately forms a barrier against any wind trying to enter the room when fitted around the perimeter of the window. To help fit the wiper seal you will often need to cut a narrow groove into the base of the sash window, so the seal can be ?pushed? and fitted accordingly.
• Secondary Glazing ? if air gaps ultimately prove too difficult to seal completely, then you could always opt for double glazing as an additional measure to conserve heat energy and preventing rattling windows from draughts that make their way through the gaps between each single window panel. Double-glazing is no longer that expensive and is pretty quick and easy to install. Double glazing can, however, weigh too much for older sash windows or may not be allowed under building regulations, so instead you may need to opt for secondary glazing.

So do you need to know how to draught proof sash windows in your home? Well, if you are proficient in DIY and fancy taking on the job yourself, then there is no reason why you shouldn?t purchase a sash window draught proofing kit (containing the seals and equipment of your choice) and get to work as soon as you?d like! DIY sash window draught proofing is proving more and more popular for home owners in large properties who fancy saving a bit of cash, so most kits available these days have extensive instruction manuals to help you get the work done. Just be sure not to force open any stuck sash windows that haven?t been opened in a long time, as you might cause extensive structural damage to the entire frame ? loosen it as gently and slowly as possible.

Hire a Draught Proofing Professional

If, however, you lack the time or confidence to do it yourself, then you can still hire a professional contractor to fit the seals for you. Remember, all products and services should comply with British Standards BS7386, which lists the guidelines for draught-proof products and services. And don?t forget to compare a number of different quotes before you choose an employer ? that way you can still save money with the confidence that the job is being completed by an experienced professional.

Want New Sash Windows?

If you?re in the market for new sash windows, check out our guide to Sash Window Prices before you buy.

Related articles:

1. Guide to Draught Proofing Windows
2. Guide to Draught Proofing Doors
3. Double Glazed Sash Windows ? Prices and Costs Guide
4. Sash Window Prices and Cost Guide
5. Cost of Sash Window Replacement, Restoration and Repair

Source: http://www.servicemagic.co.uk/resources/draught-proofing-sash-windows/

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