Traditional glazing repairs
Sash window glass and putty repairs
Cracked glass and failed putty expose timber to water and can leave panes loose or unsafe. We reglaze traditional sash windows with careful attention to their existing bars, profiles and appearance.
Glazing repairs for traditional sash windows
Individual panes are one advantage of a traditionally constructed sash: damage can normally be repaired without replacing the whole window. The work nevertheless requires care. Old glass may be thin and irregular, glazing bars can be delicate, and hard or poorly applied compounds can trap moisture against the timber.
We assess the pane, rebate and surrounding joinery before removing material. If decay is present beneath the putty, it should be addressed before new glass is fitted.
Problems we repair
Cracked or broken panes
Damaged glass is removed safely and replaced with a type appropriate to the window and location.
Loose or missing putty
Failed external fillets are renewed to secure the pane and restore weather protection.
Rattling glass
Panes with inadequate bedding or failed fixings can be reset as part of a wider overhaul.
Decayed glazing bars
Fine timber sections can often be locally repaired rather than replaced wholesale.
Our glazing process
- The sash and pane are protected, and broken glass is removed safely.
- Failed putty and unsuitable modern sealants are carefully cleared without damaging the rebate.
- Exposed timber is inspected and any localised decay repaired.
- The replacement glass is measured, cut and bedded evenly.
- Appropriate glazing fixings and a neat external fillet secure and weather the pane.
- After suitable curing, the putty and adjacent timber are protected with compatible paint.
Choosing replacement glass
The correct choice depends on safety requirements, appearance, pane size, conservation significance and desired thermal performance. Modern float glass can look noticeably different beside early cylinder or crown glass. Where original glass survives, retaining it is often desirable. For broader thermal improvement, heritage slimline double glazing or secondary glazing may be considered after assessment.
Why putty and paint work together
Traditional putty is not the final weather surface on its own. Once it has formed a suitable skin, the paint system should bridge the putty-to-glass junction slightly, protecting the edge from water. Neglected paint, open joints and cracked putty are common routes for moisture into lower rails and glazing bars.
Frequently asked questions
Can you replace one pane in a multi-pane sash?
Yes. Individual pane replacement is normally possible while retaining the remaining glass and sash.
Can original wavy glass be saved?
Where it is intact and can be removed without unacceptable risk, we aim to retain it.
Can failed putty simply be covered with sealant?
That is rarely a sound conservation repair. Loose material and underlying defects should be dealt with first.
Need a pane or putty repaired?
Tell us which window is affected and, if possible, send photographs showing the whole sash and damaged area.
Request a glazing quotation