What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

The majority of homeowners don't care about the workings of their windows. They're content as long as the windows open and close and keep outside and inside air in a separate.

However, the truth is that your window sashes are exposed to a great deal of moisture and can suffer damage due to this. A repair kit for windows sashes can be very helpful in this case.

Sash Problems

As a homeowner, it is important to know how your windows operate and what you can do if they are not functioning correctly. This will save you money and time on repairs and replacements. The materials used to make window sashes are wood, vinyl and aluminum. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, based on appearance durability, durability, maintenance, and price. Consider these factors when choosing the material you choose for your window sash.

The sash allows you to open or close your window handle replacement by sliding it. It is time to replace the sash when it becomes difficult for you to move it up and down. It's also important to examine your window on a regular basis for signs of deterioration or damage like mildew, scratches, mold and more. These minor problems can turn more extensive over time and require window replacement if they're allowed to get worse.

Wooden window sashes require regular staining and painting to keep their appearance. This can help them retain their beauty, and can also extend the life of the window. Over time, water and air can harm wooden sashes, causing wood rot. This can lead expensive repairs and lead to a drafty house.

Aluminum window sashes are extremely durable and energy efficient. If your aluminum sash is beginning to rust, you must act quickly to prevent the issue from spiralling out of control. This could be due to condensation, moisture or even wind and rain.

When a window's sash becomes damaged, the gap between the frame and sash can allow air or water to leak into your home. This could be due to weather conditions, a misaligned sash or lock. The most frequent issue with wooden sashes is that the hardware may not stay fixed in the correct position. This is often because of worn hinges. It can be easily fixed by a professional.

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 determine the amount of air infiltration, press up on either side of your sash and observe how much air passes through. This will provide you with an idea of the state of your window sash and the time before it will need to be replaced.

Damaged Sash

A window that is broken isn't just unattractive, it can impact the energy efficiency of your home. If the sash isn't capable of properly close, air can be let in and cause drafts. A broken sash may also cause additional damage to your window frame and sill. This is why it's important to have any problems with your sash addressed immediately.

The most common problem is glass that has been damaged or broken. This is an easy problem to fix. Professionals can easily replace the glass. If you're planning to do the job yourself, be sure to take the time to inspect your window for indications of damage or deterioration.

If you notice black water damage or a crack in the wood of your window, this is a sign it's time to replace the window. Black water damage is a gradual but certain way to cause rot to 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 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 this is a good indication that the cord has snapped.

To repair a snapped sash cord, you'll need to gain access to the sash from the outside of the window. You will require a ladder to look through the groove of the sash cord. Once you are able to access the cord, you are able to cut it as close to the sash as possible. This will stop it from twisting again in the future.

The next step is to grease the tracks and sash rails. You can apply silicone spray or regular candle wax to lubricate the sash rails and tracks. Then, test the sash to see whether it moves freely. It is also possible to run some lubricant along the frame and sill of your window in case it's getting sticky. If you are having issues with the sash, you must contact your local expert in sash window repair for help.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can be uncomfortable and a waste of money. They can also impact the r-value of your house. A seasoned home improvement contractor can pinpoint the source of drafts and recommend solutions that fit within your budget.

A window with drafts often has gaps in the frame, or where glass panes overlap or open. The gaps can allow cold air in and warm air out. Window sash replacement can help solve this issue.

Modern vinyl windows usually feature a foam seal which creates a barrier to outside air where the sash moves and slides to the frame. However, the seal may get damaged or worn down. The seals will last longer if you take care of them.

Older windows employ glazing putty to keep the individual panes within the wooden frames of sash. Over time, this may be brittle or crumble, and window sash replacement allow cold air to enter. Glazing putty can also shrink with time, causing sashes rattle within the frame.

Gaps in the sash or frame can be filled with weather stripping. There are a variety of types. Foam tape is a good option, since it doesn't interfere with the window's operation. The felt weather stripping is cheap and can be stapled to the window frame. It isn't as durable as foam strips.

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

Some homeowners opt to add a draft stopper which is a small rectangular cushion put under the sash. This is a cheap alternative that will reduce drafts but doesn't replace the need for a well-fitting sash. For a more permanent solution, consult a home improvement professional who will install a new sash and seal the frame to prevent air leakage. This will not only prevent drafts, but it will also boost the r-value of your house. A professional can also inform you on the right insulation for your home depending on the location and age.

Sash Leaks

While some leaks around windows are normal, a window that constantly gets wet on the frame or sill could indicate a serious problem with your sash, or the wood supporting it. This could be due a damaged seal, inefficient operation, or deterioration over time. Moisture can eventually cause mould and rot, which will require replacement of the entire window or a sash.

Air infiltration through the opening of the window is another indication that there is a major problem with sash. 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 sealed, or a worn seal allowing swells and shrinks to take place. When this happens, the sash will become stuck in the frame and not be able to open and close properly.

It is easy to determine if your window sash needs replacement by carrying out an easy test. Try pushing the wood around the perimeter of the window with the help of a screwdriver. If you feel that the screwdriver sinks into the wood, it's time to replace your window sash.

Contact an installer to arrange a meeting in the event that you suspect that your sash may need to be replaced. An experienced professional will determine the best course of action for your home and suggest the right window perfect for you.