10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Window Sash Replacement

What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

Most homeowners don't take a lot of time thinking about the mechanical workings of their windows. As long as they can open and close, and keep outside air out and the inside air in the house, they're content.

However, the truth is that the sashes of your windows are subject to a large deal of moisture and can suffer damage as a result. This is why the window sash replacement kit becomes extremely handy.

Sash Problems

As a homeowner you should know how your windows operate and what to do if they are not working properly. This will help you save time and money on repairs and replacement. The materials used to create window sashes are wood, vinyl and aluminum. Each kind of material has its own advantages and drawbacks, based on appearance, maintenance, durability and cost. Consider these factors when choosing the material for your window sash.

The sash is a sliding component that lets you open and close your window. If it becomes difficult to move the sash up and down, it is likely time for a replacement. You should also examine your window for indications of damage or deterioration such as mildew and mold. These minor issues can get worse over time, and may require replacement windows if you let them worsen.

Wooden window sashes can require regular staining and painting in order to maintain their beauty. This helps them maintain their beauty and also prolong the life of the window. Over time, water and air can cause damage to wooden sashes, leading to wood rot. This could lead to costly repair bills and to drafty homes.

Aluminum window sashes are known for their high level of durability and are energy efficient. If your aluminum sash is beginning to rust, you must act quickly to prevent the problem from getting out of control. It could be caused by moisture, condensation, wind and rain.

The gap between the frame of the window and the sash, if damaged, can allow air or water to get into your home. This can be due to weather conditions, or a misaligned sash or lock. The hardware on wooden sashes usually won't stay in place. This is usually due to worn hinges, and is easily repaired by professionals.

It's not necessarily a bad thing to have a window that allows lots of air to enter your home however, it could result in higher utility costs and more moisture. Push up on either the right or left side and observe how much air comes through. This will give you an idea of the condition of your window sash, and how long before it needs replacing.

Damaged Sash

A window that is damaged can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency of your house. If the sash doesn't close correctly, air can seep in. This could cause drafts. A damaged sash can cause damage to your window's frame and sill. This is why it's crucial to have any issues with your sash fixed immediately.

The most frequent problem is glass that has been damaged or broken. This is a simple issue to solve. Simply replacing the glass that was damaged is a relatively quick task for professionals. If you're planning on doing the job yourself, you should take the time to check the frame and your window for signs of damage or deterioration.

If you notice water damage that is black or cracks in the wood of your window this is a sign that it's time to replace it. Water damage that is black will slowly but surely rot your window sash. It is essential to replace the window before the damage gets worse.

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

To repair a snapped sash cord, you'll be required to gain access to the sash from outside of the window. You'll have to climb a ladder to look through the groove of the cord. Once you are able to access the cord, you can cut it as close to the sash as possible. This will prevent it from twisting in the future.

The next step is to grease the tracks and sash rails. You can use silicone spray or regular candle wax to lubricate the tracks and sash rails. Once the sash has been well-lubricated, you can check to see if it is moving freely. If the window feels sticky, you may want to apply lubricant to the sill and frame. If you're having issues with your sash windows, you should speak with a sash specialist.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows can be uncomfortable and a waste of money. They can also decrease the value of your home's r-value. An experienced home improvement professional will pinpoint the source of the draft and suggest a permanent solution that will fit your budget.

A window that is drafty may have gaps in the frame or where the glass panes overlap, move, or open. The gaps can allow cold air into the room and warm air out. Window sash replacement can aid in addressing this issue.

Newer vinyl windows typically feature a foam seal which creates a barrier against outside air where the sash slides down and then joins into the frame. However, the seal may get worn down or damaged. It's important to ensure regular maintenance of these components to ensure they last longer.

In older windows the glazing putty is used to support the individual panes inside the sash frame made of wood. Over time, this may become crumbly or brittle and allow cold air to enter. Glazing putty may also shrink over time which causes the sash rattle in the frame.

The gaps in the sash or frame can be filled by weather stripping. There are many kinds. Foam tape is a great option because it doesn't hinder the operation of the window. The felt weather stripping is cheap and can be stapled to the frame of the window. It is not as durable as foam strips.

Rope caulk can be used to fill the gaps around the frame. This soft material can be molded to fit the space and removed at the end of the season.

Some homeowners decide to add a draft stopper, which is basically small rectangular pillows put under the sash. This is a cheap option that reduces drafts, however, it is not a replacement for an appropriately fitted sash. Contact a professional home improvement professional who can install the new sash and seal the frame properly to prevent air leakage. This will not only eliminate drafts but will increase the r-value of your house. A professional can provide advice on the ideal insulation for your home depending on its age and location.

Sash Leaks

While leaks around windows are common windows that continuously soaks the frame or sill could indicate a serious issue with your sash or the wood supporting it. It could be due to a broken window replacement seal or improper operation, or even deterioration throughout time. Moisture can eventually cause mould and rot which will need the replacement of the entire window or a the sash.

Air infiltration through the window's opening is another indicator that there is a major problem with sash. This can be caused by gaps between operable parts of the window (sash) and fixed parts of the window frame, which should be sealed with caulking, or a damaged seal that allows swells and shrinks to occur. The sash can get stuck and not be able to move.

A simple test can be used to determine if you need to replace your window's sash. You can poke 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 suspect that your window sash needs replacement, call an installer to arrange a free consultation. An experienced professional will be able to determine the best route for your home and recommend a new window that is perfect for you.