9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Window Sash Replacement

What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

The majority of homeowners don't care about the mechanics of their windows. They're content as long windows are able to open and close and keep outside and inside air separate.

But the reality is that the sashes of your windows are exposed to a great amount of moisture and may suffer damage due to this. This is why the window sash replacement kit becomes extremely handy.

Sash Problems

As a homeowner, you need to understand the way your windows function and what to look for when they're not functioning properly. This can help you save time and money on repairs and replacement. Window sashes are constructed from various materials, including wood, aluminum and vinyl. Each material has its pros and disadvantages based on appearance, durability, maintenance and price. It's important to consider these factors prior to deciding on the best material for your window sash.

The sash is a sliding part that allows you to open and close your window. It is time to replace the sash if it becomes difficult for you to move it up and down. It's also important to examine your windows regularly for signs of deterioration, or damage, such as mildew scratches, mold, and more. These minor issues can get worse over time, and may require replacement windows if you allow them worsen.

Wooden window sashes can require regular staining and painting in order to keep their appearance. This helps them retain their beauty, and can also extend the lifespan of the window. However, over time, wooden sashes can be damaged by air and water which can cause wood rot. This could result in costly repair bills and a drafty home.

Aluminum window sashes are known for their high degree of durability and are energy efficient. If you do have an aluminum sashes that are beginning to rust, you need to act swiftly before the issue gets out of control. It could be caused by condensation, moisture or even wind and rain.

When a window's sash becomes damaged the gap between the frame and sash could allow air or water to enter your home. This could be caused by weather conditions, a locked that isn't aligned or a dropped sash. The hardware on wooden sashes usually will not stay in place. This is often due to worn hinges, and can be easily fixed by professionals.

It's not necessarily a negative thing to have a window that allows lots of air to enter your home however, it could result in higher utility bills and more moisture. To gauge your window's air infiltration, push up on the left or right side of your sash and watch how much air passes through. This will provide you with an idea of the condition of your window sash, and the length before it is due for replacement.

Damaged Sash

A broken window can have a serious impact on the energy efficiency of your house. If the sash isn't able to shut properly, air will get in and create drafts. A damaged sash can cause further damage to the window frame and sill. It's vital to fix any issues with sash as quickly as you can.

The most common problem with the sash windows is that they are damaged or missing glass. This is a straightforward issue to solve. Simply replacing the glass you have been using is a relatively quick task for professionals. If you're planning on doing the work yourself, make sure you be sure to examine your frame and window for signs of deterioration or damage.

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 rot the wood in your sash and it's crucial to replace it before the damage gets more severe.

Another common issue with sash windows is that the sash cord has snapped. This can cause the window inside the frame to become twisted. If you notice that your window feels heavier when you open it, it is a sign that the cord has been snapped.

To repair a snapped sash cord, you will need to reach the sash from the outside of the window handles replacement. This will involve climbing a ladder and observing through the sash cord groove. Once you've reached the cord cut it as close to the sash. This will prevent it from bending in the future.

Next, lubricate both the sash rails as well as the tracks. You can use silicone spray or regular candle wax to lubricate sash rails and tracks. Once the sash is coated with lubricant, you can test to see if it moves freely. You may also want to run some lubricant along the window sill and frame in case it's getting sticky. If you're having any problems with the sash then you should contact your local window specialist to get professional help.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can be uncomfortable and a waste of money. They could also impact the value of your home's r-value. A professional home improvement contractor can pinpoint the source of drafts and suggest a solution that fits within your budget.

A window with drafts often has gaps in the frame or the glass panes overlap, open, or move. The gaps can let cold air into the room, while allowing warm air to escape. Window sash replacement can help solve this issue.

Modern vinyl windows usually feature a foam seal which creates a barrier to outside air as the sash moves and slides to the frame. However, the seal can become worn down or damaged. The seals will last longer if you keep them.

In older windows the glazing putty is used to support the individual panes in the wooden sash frame. This can become brittle and fall apart over time and let in cold air. Glazing putty also shrinks over time and cause the sash to rattle in the frame.

The gaps in the sash and frame can be filled by weather stripping. There are various types available. Foam tape is an excellent option, since it doesn't interfere with the window's operation. Felt weather stripping can be stapled or nailed to the window frame and is cost-effective. It isn't as durable as foam strips.

Rope caulk is an excellent alternative for gaps in the frame. The flexible material can be molded to fit the frame and removed at the end of the season.

Some homeowners choose to add a draft stopper, which is essentially a small rectangular pillow that is placed beneath the sash. This is a low-cost alternative that will reduce drafts but does not replace the need for a properly-fitting sash. For a better, more long-lasting solution, contact an expert in home improvement who will install a new sash and seal the frame to prevent air leakage. This will not only eliminate drafts, but also increase the r-value of your house. A professional can also guide you on which insulation is best for your home according to its location and its age.

Sash Leaks

While leaks around windows are common windows that continuously gets wet on the frame or sill could indicate a serious problem with your sash, or the wood supporting it. This could be due to a damaged seal, Window Sash Replacement improper operation, or the deterioration that occurs over time. The moisture will eventually cause rot and mould, which will require the replacement of the entire window or window sash.

Another sign of a serious problem with the sash is excessive air infiltration through the window opening. This can be caused by gaps between operable parts of the window (sash) and fixed parts of the window frame that should be capped with caulking, or by a worn seal that allows shrinks and swells to happen. When this occurs, the sash could become stuck in the frame and be unable to open or close in a proper manner.

A simple test can be used to determine if you're required to replace the window sash. Try poking the wood using a screw driver along the edges of your window. If you feel the screw driver sink into the wood, it's likely that you need to replace the sash.

If you think your window sash is in need of replacement, call an installer for a no-cost consultation. A professional with experience will be able determine the best course of actions for your home and suggest a window that is perfect for you.