What to Look For in Window Sash Replacement

Most homeowners don't think much about the mechanics of their windows. They're content as long windows can be opened and closed and keep the outside and inside air separate.

But the reality is that the sashes of your windows are exposed to a significant amount of moisture and could suffer damage as a result. This is why the window sash replacement kit becomes very handy.

Sash Problems

As a homeowner, you need to understand how your windows work and what to look out for when they're not functioning properly. This will save you time and money on repairs and replacement. Window sashes are made from different materials like wood, aluminum and vinyl. Each material has advantages and disadvantages based on their appearance, durability, maintenance and cost. Be aware of these aspects when choosing the material you choose for your window sash.

The Sash is a sliding element that allows you to open and close your window. It's time to replace the sash if it becomes difficult to move it up and down. It is also important to check your window for signs of damage or deterioration such as mildew and mold. These small issues can become larger in time and require window replacement if they're allowed to grow.

Wooden window sashes may require regular staining or painting for maintenance. This will help them to maintain their beauty and also prolong the lifespan of the window. Over time, water and air can harm wooden sashes, which can cause wood decay. This can lead to expensive repairs and a drafty home.

Aluminum window sashes are extremely durable and energy efficient. However, if you have aluminum sash that is starting to rust, it's important to act quickly before this problem becomes too much of a concern. This can be caused by condensation, moisture or even rain and wind.

The gap between the frame of the window and the sash, if damaged, could allow water or air to infiltrate your home. This could be caused by weather conditions, a misaligned sash or lock. The hardware on wooden sashes often will not stay in place. This is typically due to hinges that are worn out that can be fixed easily by a professional.

It's not necessarily a bad thing to have windows that let plenty of air into your home however, it could result in higher utility bills and more moisture. To determine the amount of air infiltration, put your finger on the left or right side of your sash, and observe how much air flows through. This will give you a good indicator of the state of your sash as well as how long it will last before it needs to be replaced.

Sash Damaged Sash

A broken window could have a major impact on the efficiency of your house. If the sash doesn't properly close, air could get in and create drafts. Often, a broken sash can cause additional damage to the window frame and sill. This is why it's crucial to have any problems with your sash fixed immediately.

The most frequent problem is damaged or missing glass. This is a fairly easy problem to fix. Professionals can easily replace the old glass. If you plan to do the work yourself, make sure you take some time and inspect your window for signs of damage or degradation.

If you spot a crack in the wood or black water damage, then this is a sign that your window requires replacement windows and doors. The black water damage will slowly but surely cause rot to your window sash. It is crucial to replace the window before the damage gets worse.

The snapping of the sash cord is a frequent issue with sash windows. This can cause the window to be twist inside the frame. If you feel that your window is heavier when you open, this is an indication that the cord has been snapped.

To repair a snapped or damaged sash cord, you'll be required to access the sash from the outside of the window. You'll have to climb a ladder to look through the groove of the sash cord. Once you've got access to the cord, you can cut it as close to the sash as you can. This will prevent it from twisting again in the future.

Then, lubricate the rails of the sash as well as the tracks. You can apply silicone spray or regular candle wax to lubricate the sash rails and tracks. After the sash has been lubricated, you can test to ensure that it is moving freely. If the window feels sticky, you might want to apply an oil-based lubricant on the sill and frame. If you have any problems with the sash you must contact your local window specialist to get professional assistance.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can make you uncomfortable, and they can also waste money. They can also reduce the r-value for your home. A seasoned home improvement contractor can identify the source of the draft and recommend a permanent solution that fits your budget.

A window that is drafty will usually have gaps in the frame or where the glass panes overlap, move, or open. The gap can let cold air in and warm air out. This issue can be resolved by replacing the window sash.

Newer windows made of vinyl typically feature a foam seal which creates a barrier to outside air where the sash slides and joins to the frame. The seal could wear down or break. The seals will last longer if you take care of them.

Older windows employ glazing putty to keep the separate panes in place within the wooden sash frames. As time passes, the putty can become crumbly or brittle and let in cold air. Glazing putty may also shrink over time and cause the sash to rattle in the frame.

The gaps in the sash or frame can be filled with weather stripping. There are a variety of types available. Foam tape is a great option because it won't interfere with the operation of the window. Felt weather stripping can be stapled or attached to the frame of the window and is inexpensive. It's not as long-lasting as foam strips.

Rope caulk is an excellent 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 put under the sash. This is a low-cost alternative that can reduce drafts, but it does not take away the need for a perfectly fitted sash. For a better, more long-lasting solution, you should contact a professional in home improvement who will install a new sash and properly 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 advise you on the ideal insulation for your home depending on the age of the house and its location.

Sash Leaks

While leaks around windows are not uncommon windows that continuously gets wet on the frame or sill suggests there is a major issue with your sash or the wood that supports it. It could be due to a damaged seal, improper operation or deterioration throughout time. Eventually, moisture can cause rot and mold that will require total replacement of the sash or the entire window (7).

Air infiltration through the window's opening is another sign that there is a major issue with sash. This could be caused due to gaps between the operable parts (sash) of the window and the fixed parts of the window frame, which should be caulked or have an old seal that allows expansion and shrinkage to take place. The sash can get stuck and not be able to move.

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