What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

The majority of homeowners don't think too much about the mechanics of their windows. As long as they can open and close and keep the outside air out and the inside air in the house, they're content.

But the reality is that your window sashes are exposed to a significant amount of moisture and may suffer damage as a result. This is when a window sash replacement kit becomes extremely useful.

Problems with the Sash

As a homeowner you should be aware of how your windows work and what you can do if they're not functioning properly. This can help you save time and money on repairs and replacement. The materials used to create window sashes are made of aluminum, vinyl, and wood. Each material has its pros and disadvantages, based on appearance as well as durability, maintenance and price. It's important to consider these factors before choosing the appropriate material for your window sash.

The sash is a sliding part that allows you to open and close your window. If it becomes difficult to move the sash up and down, Window Replacement it is likely the time to replace it. It's also important to examine your window on a regular basis to look for signs of wear or damage such as mildew, mold, scratches and more. These minor issues can grow more extensive over time and require window replacement if they're allowed to worsen.

Wooden window sashes can require regular painting and staining to keep their beauty. This will help them to retain their beauty, and may also prolong the life of the window. In time, water and air can cause damage to wooden sashes, which can cause wood rot. This could lead to costly repair bills and to a drafty house.

Aluminum window sashes offer a high degree of durability and are energy efficient. If your aluminum sash is rusting, it is important to be quick to stop the issue from becoming out of control. This could be due to condensation, moisture or even rain and wind.

The gap between the window frame and the sash, if damaged, window replacement can allow water or air to infiltrate your home. This can be caused by weather conditions, a locked that isn't aligned or a sash that has fallen. The hardware on wooden sashes usually won't stay in place. This is usually due to worn-out hinges that can be easily fixed by an expert.

It's not necessarily a negative thing to have a window that allows lots of air to enter your home, but it could mean higher utility bills and more moisture. Push up on either the left or right side and observe how much air is pushed through. This will provide you with an idea of the state of your window sash, and how long before it will need to be replaced.

Sash Damaged Sash

A broken window isn't just unattractive, it can affect the energy efficiency of your home. If the sash isn't able to properly close, air can get in and create drafts. In many cases, a damaged sash can cause additional damage to the window frame and sill. It is crucial to fix any issues with the sash as soon as you can.

The most common problem with windows made of sash is damaged or missing glass window replacement. This is an easy problem to fix. Simply replacing the glass that was damaged is a relatively quick task for professionals. If you plan to do the job yourself, be sure to take the time to inspect your window for indications of damage or deterioration.

If you notice a crack in the wood or water damage, then this is a sign that the window requires replacement. Black water damage is a gradual but certain way to cause rot to the wood in your sash, and it's important to replace it before the damage becomes worse.

Another common issue with sash windows is that the sash cord has snapped. This can cause the window to be twisted inside of the frame. If you feel that your window is heavier when you open, this could be a sign that the cord may have snapped.

You'll need to get the sash from outside the window in order to fix a snapped cord. This will involve climbing a ladder and looking through the groove of the sash cord. Once you've got access to the cord, you are able to cut it as close to the sash as you can. This will stop it from twisting in the future.

The next step is to lubricate the tracks and sash rails. This can be done with regular candle wax or silicone spray. You can then examine the sash to determine whether it is able to move freely. It is also possible to run some lubricant along the frame and sill of your window when it feels sticky. If you have any issues with the sash then you should contact your local window specialist to get professional help.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can be uncomfortable and cost money. They can also reduce the r-value for your home. A professional home improvement contractor can pinpoint the source of drafts, and recommend an option that is within your budget.

A window with a draft often has gaps in the frame or where glass panes overlap, open, or move. The gaps can allow cold air in and warm air out. Replacement of the window sash can help with this problem.

Most vinyl windows are equipped with a foam seal in order to create a barrier between the inside and outside air at the point where the sash slides into the frame. However, the seal may get worn down or damaged. It's crucial to ensure regular maintenance of these components to ensure they last longer.

In older windows the glazing putty is used to secure the individual panes inside the wooden sash frame. It is brittle and can crumble over the years, letting in cold air. Glazing putty can also shrink with time, causing sashes to rattle within the frame.

The gaps in the sash and frame can be filled by weather stripping. There are various kinds. Foam tape is a good option, since it doesn't interfere with the window's operation. Felt weather stripping can be stapled or fastened to the frame of the window and is cost-effective. It's not as long as foam strips, however.

Rope caulk is a great option to fill the gaps around the frame. This soft material is easily removed after 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 can reduce drafts, but it does not take away the need for a properly-fitting sash. Contact a professional home improvement contractor who will install the new sash, and seal the frame properly to prevent air leakage. This will not only prevent drafts, but also increase the r-value of your home. Additionally, a professional can advise you on the most suitable insulation for your home, based on its age and location.

Sash Leaks

While some leaks around windows are not uncommon however, a window that continually gets wet on the frame or sill could indicate a serious problem with your sash, or the wood supporting it. This could be due an unsound seal, poor operation, or the deterioration that occurs over time. Moisture will eventually cause rot and mould which will need the replacement of either the entire window or the sash.

Another sign of a serious issue with sash is the an excessive amount of air entering the window opening. It can be caused due to gaps between the operable parts (sash) of the window and the fixed parts of the window frame, which need to be caulked, or an old seal that allows the swell and shrink to occur. The sash may get stuck and not be able to move.

A simple test can be used to determine if you're required to replace the window sash. You can poke the wood using a screw driver around the perimeter of your window. If you can feel the screw driver sink into the wood, it's likely time to replace the sash.

If you think your window sash is in need of replacement double glazed window, contact a professional for a no-cost consultation. An experienced professional will be able determine the best course of action for your home and suggest an appropriate window right for you.