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Most homeowners don't think much about the workings 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.
However, the fact is that the sashes of your windows are exposed to a great amount of moisture and may suffer damage due to it. That's when a window sash replacement kit comes in very handy.
Problems with the Sash
As a homeowner, you must understand how your windows function and what to do if they're not functioning correctly. This will save you time and money on repairs and replacement. The materials used to make window sashes include aluminum, vinyl, and wood. Each material has advantages and disadvantages based on appearance, durability, maintenance and price. Consider these factors when choosing the material you choose for your window sash.
The sash lets you open or close your window by sliding it up and down. It is time to replace the sash when it becomes difficult to move it up and down. It's also important to examine your window regularly for signs of deterioration or damage like mildew, mold, scratches and more. These minor problems can turn larger over time and will need replacement if allowed to get worse.
Wooden window sashes may require regular painting and staining to keep their beauty. This will help them maintain their beauty and prolong the life of your window. Over time, water and air can damage wooden sashes, leading to wood rot. This could result in costly repair bills and a drafty home.
Aluminum window sashes are known for their excellent durability and are energy efficient. If your sash made of aluminum is rusting, you should be quick to stop the issue from spiralling out of control. This can be caused by moisture, condensation or even wind and rain.
The gap between the frame of the window and the sash, when damaged, may allow air or water to enter your home. This can be caused by weather conditions, a misaligned lock or a dropped sash. A common issue with wooden sashes is that the hardware may not stay in the correct position. This is typically due to hinges that are worn out that can be easily fixed by a professional.
Window with an abundance of air infiltration isn't necessarily a bad thing however, it can result in higher costs for utilities and more humidity in your home. To gauge your window's air infiltration, push up on either side of your sash and observe how much air passes through. This will give you an indicator of the state of your sash as well as how long it will last until it needs to be replaced.
Sash Damaged Sash
A broken window could have a major impact on the energy efficiency of your house. If the sash can't close properly, air will seep in. This could cause drafts. A damaged sash can cause further damage to your window's frame and sill. It is crucial to fix any sash problems as soon as possible.
The most common problem with windows made of sash is damaged or missing glass. This is a fairly easy problem to repair. Professionals can easily replace the old glass. If you're planning to do the task yourself, take some time and 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 needs to be replaced. Black water damage is a gradual but certain way to cause wood to rot in your sash, and it's important to replace it before the damage becomes 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 is an indication that the cord may have snapped.
To repair a snapped or damaged sash cord, you will need to access the sash from outside of the window. This requires climbing a ladder and looking through the groove of the sash cord. Once you have access to the cord, you can cut it as close to the sash as possible. This will stop it from bending in the future.
The next step is to lubricate the tracks and sash rails. You can use silicone spray or regular candle wax to lubricate the sash rails and tracks. You can then examine the sash to determine whether it moves freely. If the window is sticky, you may want to apply lubricant to the sill and frame. If you are having issues with the sash you must contact your local expert in sash window repair for assistance.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be uncomfortable and a waste of money. They could also impact the r-value of your house. A seasoned home improvement professional will pinpoint the source of the draft and suggest a permanent solution that will fit your budget.
A window replacement glass near me that has drafts usually has gaps in the frame or where panes of glass overlap, open, or move. The gaps can allow cold air into the room and warm air out. Window sash replacement can help solve this issue.
Newer windows made of vinyl typically have a foam seal that creates a barrier to outside air, where the sash slides down and then joins into the frame. However, the seal may get worn down or damaged. The seals will last longer if you maintain them.
Older windows employ glazing putty to hold the panes of glass Window Replacements near me within the wooden sash frames. As time passes, the putty can become brittle or crumble and let in cold air. Glazing putty could also shrink with time, causing sashes rattle inside the frame.
Weather stripping is a great option to fill in the gaps between the frame and sash. There are various types. Foam tape is a great choice because it doesn't hinder the window's operation. The felt weather stripping is inexpensive and can be attached to the frame of the window. It doesn't last as long as foam strips, but it is still.
Rope caulk is a good solution for gaps in the frame. The flexible material can be molded to fill the space, and removed at the end of the season.
Some homeowners add a draft stopper which is a small rectangular cushion placed under the sash. This is a cheap option that reduces drafts but does not replace the need for a well-fitting sash. If you want a more durable solution, you should contact a home improvement professional who can install a new sash and properly seal the frame to stop air leakage. This will not only block drafts, but will also boost the r value of your home. A professional can help you choose the most suitable insulation for your home in light of the age of the house and its location.
Sash Leaks
A window that wets your frame or sill continuously isn't normal. It could be a problem with the sash, or the wood that supports the sash. This could be due an unsound seal, poor operation, or the deterioration that occurs over time. The moisture will eventually cause mould and rot, which will require replacement of the entire window or sash.
Air infiltration through the opening of the window is another sign that there is a major problem with sash. This can be caused by gaps between the operable parts of the window (sash) and fixed parts of the frame that need to be sealed with caulking, or by an old seal that allows shrinks and swells to take place. When this happens, the sash will be stuck within the frame and could be unable to open and close properly.
A simple test can be used to determine whether you're required to replace your window's sash. Try poking 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 probably time to replace the window sash.
If you think your window sash needs replacement, contact an installer for a free consultation. A professional with experience will be able determine the best option for your home and recommend a window that is perfect for your needs.