What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

The majority of homeowners don't think too much about the workings of their windows. If they are able to open and close and keep the outside air out and the inside air in, they're happy.

However, the truth is that the sashes of your windows are exposed to a significant amount of moisture and could suffer damage due to it. This is when a window sash replacement kit becomes extremely useful.

Sash Problems

As a homeowner, you must know how your windows operate and what to do if they're not working properly. This can help you save time and money on repairs and replacement. Window sashes are made from a variety of materials including vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Each material type comes with its own advantages and drawbacks, based on appearance, maintenance, durability and price. Take into consideration these aspects when selecting the material for your window sash.

The sash allows you to open or close your window by sliding it. It is time to replace the sash if it becomes hard to move it up and down. You should also inspect your window for indications of deterioration or damage like mildew or mold. These little issues can become more serious over time and eventually require replacement windows if you allow them get worse.

Wooden window sashes require regular staining and painting to maintain their beauty. This helps them maintain their beauty and also prolong the lifespan of the window. In time, water and air can damage wooden sashes, causing wood rot. This can lead to expensive repair costs and a drafty home.

Aluminum window sashes are highly durable and energy efficient. If you do have an aluminum sashes that are starting to rust, it's crucial to act swiftly before the problem becomes too much of a concern. 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 can allow water or air to escape into your home. This could be caused by weather conditions, a lock that is not aligned or a dropped sash. A common problem with wooden sashes is that the hardware may not remain in the correct position. This is typically because of worn hinges, which can be easily fixed 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 bills and more moisture. Make sure to open either the left or right side and see the amount of air that passes through. This will give you an indication of the condition of your sash as well as how long it will last before it's time to replace.

Sash Damaged Sash

A broken window could have a major impact on the efficiency of your home. If the sash doesn't properly close, air could seep in and create drafts. In many cases, a damaged sash can also result in additional damage to the window frame and sill. This is the reason it's vital to have any issues with your sash repaired immediately.

The most common problem with windows made of sash is broken or missing glass. This is a simple issue to repair. Simply replacing the old glass windows replacement near me is a simple task for professionals. If you are planning to complete the task yourself, be sure to take the time to inspect your window for signs of damage or degradation.

If you spot black water damage or cracks in your window's wood this is a sign that it needs to be replaced. Black water damage is a slow, but certain way to cause wood to rot in your sash and it's essential to replace it before the damage gets more severe.

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

To fix a snapped sash cord, you will need to reach the sash from outside of the window. You will 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 again in the future.

The next step is to grease the sash rails and tracks. This can be done with regular candle wax or silicone spray. Then, you can examine the sash to determine if it moves freely. You may also want to run some lubricant along the frame and sill of your window in case it's getting sticky. If you are having problems with your sash windows, you should talk to a sash specialist.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows can be uncomfortable and a waste of money. They may also affect the value of your home's r-value. A seasoned home improvement contractor can identify the source of drafts and suggest solutions that fit within your budget.

A window replacement glass that is drafty will usually have gaps in the frame, or where the glass panes overlap, move, or open. The gap could let cold air into the room, while allowing warm air to escape. Window sash replacement can help solve this issue.

Modern vinyl windows usually come with a foam seal that creates a barrier against the outside air where the sash slides down and then joins to the frame. The seal could wear down or be damaged. These components will last longer if you maintain them.

Older windows employ glazing putty to hold the separate panes in place within the wooden frames of sash. Over time, this can become crumbly or brittle and let in cold air. Glazing putty can shrink over time, causing sashes rattle within the frame.

The gaps in the sash or frame can be filled by weather stripping. There are a variety of types. Foam tape is a great option because it doesn't interfere with the operation of the window. Weather stripping made of felt is stapled or nailed to the window frame and is a low-cost option. It doesn't last 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 a small rectangular pillow placed under the sash. This is a cheap option that reduces drafts but it does not take away the need for a well-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 stop drafts but will increase the r-value of your house. In addition, a professional can help you choose the ideal insulation for your home depending on the age of the house and its location.

Sash Leaks

While some leaks around windows are not uncommon however, a window that continually wets the sill or frame could indicate a serious problem with your sash or the wood supporting it. This may be due to a damaged seal, improper operation or deterioration over time. In time, moisture can cause mold and rot that requires the replacement of the sash, or even the entire window (7).

Another sign of a serious problem with the sash is 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 window frame, which should be sealed, or a worn seal allowing swells and shrinks to take place. The sash may get stuck and not be able to move.

It is easy to determine if the window sash is in need of replacement by carrying out an easy test. Try poking at the wood with a screw driver along the outside of your window. If you feel that the screwdriver sinks into the wood, it's time to replace the window sash.

If you suspect that your sash is in need of replacement, call an installer for a free consultation. A professional with experience will be able determine the best course of actions for your home and recommend the right window for your needs.