What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

The majority of homeowners don't care about the mechanisms of their windows. If they are able to open and close and keep the outside air out and air inside the house, they're content.

Your window sashes may be damaged by moisture. A window sash repair kit is extremely useful in this case.

Sash Problems

As a homeowner, you need to understand the way your windows function and what to look out for when they're not functioning correctly. This will save you money and time on repairs and replacements. Window sashes are constructed from various materials, including wood, aluminum and vinyl. Each type of material has its own advantages and drawbacks based on the appearance maintenance, durability, and price. It's important to consider these aspects before deciding on the best material for your window sash.

The sash allows you to open or close your window by sliding it. If it becomes difficult to move the sash up and down it's probably time for a replacement glass in windows. It's also important to examine your window regularly for signs of deterioration, or damage such as mildew, mold, scratches and more. These little issues can become more serious over time, and may require replacement windows if allowed to let them worsen.

Wooden window sashes may require regular staining and painting in order to keep their beauty. This helps them retain their appeal and extend the lifespan of your window. Over time, water and air can harm wooden sashes, leading to wood rot. This can result in expensive repair costs and a drafty house.

Aluminum window sashes are highly durable and energy efficient. However, if you have aluminum sashes that are starting to rust, it's important to act swiftly before the issue gets out of control. It could be caused by condensation, moisture, wind and rain.

The gap between the frame of the window and the sash, when damaged, can let water or air enter your home. This could be caused by weather conditions, or a misaligned sash or lock. The hardware on wooden sashes often won't stay in place. This is usually because of worn hinges. It can be easily fixed by professionals.

It's not necessarily a bad thing to have a window that lets plenty of air into your home however it could lead to higher utility bills and more moisture. To measure your window's air infiltration, put your finger on either side of your sash and watch how much air passes through. This will provide you with an idea of the state of your window sash and the time before it is due for replacement sash windows.

Sash Damaged Sash

A window that is damaged could have a major impact on the energy efficiency of your home. If the sash doesn't close properly, air will seep into. This can cause drafts. A damaged sash can cause damage to the window frame and sill. This is the reason it's vital to have any issues with your sash repaired right away.

The most common problem with the sash windows is that they are damaged or missing glass. This is a simple issue to repair. Simply replacing the glass that was damaged is a simple task for professionals. However, if you're aiming to complete the job yourself, you should be sure to examine your frame and window for any signs of deterioration or damage.

If you notice water damage that is black or a crack in the wood of your window this is a sign that 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 important to replace it before the damage becomes more severe.

The snapping of the sash cord is another frequent issue with sash windows. This could cause the window within the frame to sag. If you notice that your window feels heavier when you open it, then this is a clear indication that the cord has been snapped.

To repair a snapped or damaged sash cord, you'll be required to gain access to the sash from the outside of the window. This requires climbing a ladder and observing through the groove of the sash cord. Once you've reached the cord cut it as close as you can to the sash. This will prevent it from bending in the future.

The next step is to lubricate the tracks and rails of sash. This can be done with regular candle wax or silicone spray. Then, you can examine the sash to determine if it moves 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 talk to a sash specialist.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can be uncomfortable and waste money. They can also decrease the r-value for your home. An experienced home improvement professional will pinpoint the source of the draft and recommend a permanent solution that will fit your budget.

A drafty window will often have gaps in the frame or in the places where the glass panes overlap or move. The gap could allow cold air in and warm air out. This issue can be fixed by replacing the window sash.

The majority of vinyl windows come with a foam seal in order to create a barrier between outside and inside air at the point where the sash slides into the frame. However, the seal can become damaged or worn down. The seals will last longer if you maintain them.

Older windows employ glazing putty to secure the panes of glass within the wooden sash frames. As time passes, the putty can become crumbly or brittle and allow cold air to enter. Glazing putty may also shrink over time and cause the sash to rattle inside the frame.

Weather stripping is a great option to fill in the gaps between the frame and the sash. There are many kinds. Foam tape is an excellent option, since it does not interfere with the window's operation. Weather stripping made of felt can be stapled or nailed to the window frame and is inexpensive. It's not as long-lasting as foam strips.

Rope caulk can be used to fill the gaps around the frame. The flexible material can be moulded to fill the space, and easily removed at the end of the season.

Some homeowners decide to add a draft stopper, which is essentially small rectangular pillows that is placed beneath the sash. This is a cheap alternative that will reduce drafts but it does not take away the need for a properly-fitting sash. Contact an experienced home improvement contractor who can install the new sash, and seal the frame to stop air leakage. This will not only eliminate drafts, but also increase the r-value of your home. A professional can also inform you on the right insulation for your home according to its location and age.

Sash Leaks

A window that dries your frame or sill continuously isn't normal. It could be due to a problem with the sash, or the wood that supports the sash. This could be due to a broken seal, improper operation or deterioration over time. Moisture can eventually cause rot and mould that will require the replacement of the entire window or a sash.

Another sign of a major issue with sash is the an excessive amount of air entering the window's opening. This could be due to gaps between operable parts of the window (sash) and fixed parts of the frame that should be capped with caulking, or by an old seal which allows shrinks and swells to happen. If this occurs, the sash can be stuck within the frame and could not be able to open and close correctly.

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

Contact an installer for a consultation if you suspect your sash needs to be replaced. A knowledgeable professional will be able to determine the best option for your home, and suggest a window that is perfect for you.