What to Look For in
Window Sash ReplacementMost homeowners don't think much about the mechanics of their windows. They're happy as long as windows can be opened and closed and keep outside and inside air separated.
Your window sashes can be damaged by moisture. That's when a window sash repair kit comes in extremely handy.
Problems with the Sash
As a homeowner, you must understand how your windows function and what you can do if they're not working properly. This will help you save money and time on repairs and replacements. Window sashes are constructed from various materials, including vinyl, aluminum and wood. Each material has its pros and disadvantages, based on appearance, durability, maintenance and price. It is important to think about these factors before choosing the appropriate material for your window sash.
The sash is a sliding part that lets you open and close your window. It is time to replace the sash when it becomes difficult to move it up and down. It's also important to inspect your window on a regular basis to look for signs of wear or damage like mildew, scratches, mold and more. These minor problems can turn more extensive over time and need replacement if allowed to grow.
Wooden window sashes can require regular staining or painting for maintenance. This helps them retain their appeal and extend the life of your window. However, over time, wooden sashes could be damaged by air and water which can cause wood decay. This can result in expensive repair bills and a drafty home.
Aluminum window sashes are extremely durable and energy efficient. If your aluminum sash is rusting, you should take action immediately to stop the problem from getting out of control. This could be due to condensation, moisture or wind.
The gap between the window frame and the sash, if damaged, could allow water or air to enter your home. This can be caused by weather conditions, a misaligned lock or a dropped sash. A common issue with wooden sashes is that the hardware will not stay fixed in the correct position. This is typically due to worn-out hinges that can be easily fixed by a professional.
It's not necessarily a negative thing to have a window that allows plenty of air into your home, but it could mean higher utility bills and more moisture. Push up on either the right or left side and see how much air is pushed through. This will provide you with an idea of the condition of your window sash and the time before it will need to be replaced.
Sash damaged Sash
A broken window can have a serious impact on the efficiency of your house. If the sash can't close properly, air will leak into. This can create drafts. In many cases, a damaged sash can cause damage to the window frame and sill. This is why it's important to have any issues with your sash fixed immediately.
The most common problem is damaged or missing glass. This is a relatively simple problem to solve. Professionals can easily replace the old glass. If you're planning to do the job yourself, take some time and inspect your window for indications of damage or degradation.
If you notice black water damage or a crack in the wood of your window it's a sign it's time to replace the window. Black water damage is a slow but sure way to cause rot to the wood in your sash, and it's essential to replace it before the damage gets worse.
Another issue that is very common with sash windows is when the sash cord is snapped. This can cause the window inside the frame to become twisted. If you notice that your window is heavier when you open it, this is a clear indication that the cord has been snapped.
To repair a snapped or damaged sash cord, you will need to access the sash from outside of the window. You will require on a ladder to inspect the groove of the cord. Once you've accessed the cord and cut it as close as you can to the sash. This will stop it from twisting in the future.
Then, you need to lubricate both rails on the sash and the tracks. This can be done using regular candle wax or silicone spray. Once the sash is lubricated, you can test to ensure that it moves freely. If the window is sticky, you might want to apply lubricant to the sill and frame. If you're having any issues with the sash, then you should call your local sash window specialist for professional assistance.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows can be uncomfortable and cost money. They could also impact the r-value of your house. A professional home improvement professional will pinpoint the source of the draft and suggest a permanent solution that fits your budget.
A window that is drafty will usually have gaps in the frame or where the glass panes overlap, move, or open. The gap can let cold air into the room, and warm air to escape. Window sash replacement can aid in addressing this issue.
Modern vinyl windows usually have a foam seal that creates a barrier against outside air, where the sash moves and slides into the frame. However, the seal can become damaged or worn out. The seals will last longer if you take care of them.
In older windows,
double glazing windows replacement putty is used to support the individual panes in the wooden sash frame. Over time, this can become crumbly or brittle and allow cold air to enter. Glazing putty can also shrink over time, which causes sashes to rattle within the frame.
Gaps in the sash or frame can be filled with weather stripping. There are a variety of kinds of. Foam tape is an excellent choice since it doesn't hinder the window's operation. The felt weather stripping is cheap and can be stapled to the window frame. It's not as long-lasting as foam strips.
Rope caulk can be used to fill in the gaps around the frame. The soft material can be easily removed after the season.
Some homeowners choose to add a draft stopper, which is essentially small rectangular pillows that is placed beneath the sash. This is a low-cost option that reduces drafts but doesn't replace the need for a perfectly fitted sash. If you want a more durable solution, consult an expert in home improvement who can install a brand new sash and seal it properly to the frame to prevent air leakage. This will not only prevent drafts, but will also boost the value of your home. A professional can also inform you on the right insulation for your home depending on the location and age.
Sash Leaks
A window that dries your sill or frame constantly is not normal. It could be a problem with the sash, or the wood supporting the sash. It could be due to a damaged seal or improper operation, or even deterioration over time. Eventually, moisture can cause mold and rot, which will require total replacement of the sash or the entire window (7).
Another indication of a serious problem with the sash is excessive air infiltration through the window opening. This could be due to gaps between the operable parts of the window (sash) and fixed parts of the window frame that should be capped with caulking or a worn seal that allows swells and shrinks to happen. If this occurs, the sash can become stuck in the frame and not be able to open and close correctly.
You can easily determine if the window sash needs replacement by conducting a simple test. You can poke the wood with a screw driver around the edges of your window. If you feel the screw driver sink into the wood, it is likely that it is time to replace the sash.
If you think your window sash needs replacement, call an installer for a free consultation. An experienced professional will be able determine the most appropriate course of action for your home and suggest the right window for your needs.
