How to Fix Common Problems With Replacement Sash Windows

If they’re damaged old windows may be difficult to open or get stuck. Replacing the window sash with a new one assists in resolving these issues and can be done without replacing the entire frame.

uPVC Sash window fittings are also energy efficient and reduce the cost of energy. In addition, new sashes may block ultraviolet rays, which can cause furnishings and indoor plants to fade.

Sash Damaged Sash

Even windows with sash that are well-maintained need to be checked on from time to time. Broken cords, draughty frames and meeting rails decaying sills, loose glue and beads, broken glass, and failing paint are all common issues that can cause you to consider replacing the window. In many instances, these issues can be resolved without having to replace the entire window.

For instance, broken cords are usually caused by old or poorly-fitting window hardware that has worn out. If this is the case, a quick inspection of the hardware on the window could reveal the issue. Pam suggests pulling on the cord and move the sash up and down — if it is able to move easily and is free of any significant friction, the sash can likely be repaired.

If there’s a lot of rubbing, or it’s difficult to move the sash, the problem could be with the sash itself. Pam suggests lubricating the sash, especially the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray, to make it easier to open and Replacement Sash Windows close. She also suggests fixing any broken hardware, such as missing or misaligned pulleys and sash weights.

A simple repair is to paint the rotten wood parts on the frame. This will protect the wood against further damage and also prevent the entry of moisture.

Pam suggests priming the sash with a high-quality primer after lightly sanding any painted surfaces. Then, she prefers using a semi-gloss polyurethane. This will stop the paint from peeling, flaking or blistering and will allow the sash slide smoothly.

When you are reinstalling the sash Pam advises to compare the tabs made of metal on the new sash with the tabs on the old one to ensure they’re in the proper slots. If you don’t take this step then the sash won’t be able to slide up and down. If needed you can use wood filler to smooth out the joint. She recommends that if there are a lot of cracks, the entire sash be replaced.

Water Damage

A poor weather seal allows moisture to get inside the frame and cause water damage. If not addressed, this dampness could cause decay of the wood. This is one of the primary reasons it’s important to regularly inspect your sash windows. Be on the lookout for signs such as paint peeling visible decay, mold growth that may suggest a damaged sash.

In addition to the possible health issues water damaged sashes can be extremely unsightly, especially if they are exposed to sunlight or in an open area. It’s a good idea consider replacement sash windows with laminated glass to reduce the impact of UV rays on your home.

Personal preference and budget will determine if you should preserve the window sashes from the beginning. If you decide to replace the current sashes in your home then you must invest in similar designs to maintain its integrity.

A sash window’s proportion, glazing bars, and size should all fit with the style of your home. The purchase of a new window sash offers an opportunity to improve the overall look of your home and make it feel more comfortable by reducing drafts and noise from outside.

If your sash is hard to move up or down it’s a sign you should replace it. It can be a frustrating experience to live with windows that don’t open and close properly and thereby making it difficult for you to let in fresh air and make the most of your natural light. Replacing a damaged window sash is a low-cost solution to solve this problem and will help you cut down on your energy bills in the long term.

Foggy Glass

Window glass that is smudgey can be ugly, but they also reduce the efficiency of your home and make it hard to open and shut your windows. Fortunately, there are many solutions to address them. First, consider sash replacement. These kits are designed for replacing the sash with the frame still intact. This makes the job much cheaper and less costly than tearing out the existing frame and trim.

Another option is to clean the glass. This might not help the fog, but it can get rid of dust and debris that may be causing the issue. Finally, you can try lubricating the sash or frame with oil or wax to enable it to be moved.

If your sash has become stuck or jammed in the frame, you may need to replace the balance system. The old-fashioned balance system that is weighted is typically constructed of wood, and these components can swell or shrink with the fluctuation of humidity. This can cause the sash to be misaligned, which makes it difficult to open and close. The new sash replacement kit comes with coil springs and tackles that replace this system. This helps to keep the sash in position and allows it to move up and down properly.

Finally, rot can be an issue for windows made of sash. The wood will expand and shrink when humidity changes, and this can lead to leaks and cracks in the window. This indicates that the sash or frame may need to be replaced.

There are many reasons to repair or replace sash windows, but you should always consult a professional before making any major decisions. They can provide you with guidance on the most suitable options for your home and your budget. They’ll also inform you whether fixing the window is feasible prior to making a complete replacement. They may also suggest you consider replacing windows with modern features such as double-glazing and an efficient design.

Leaky Seals

A damaged window seal isn’t only costly and annoying but it’s also risky. If condensation develops between your window panes humidity can enter your house and cause mold. The best way to prevent window seal failure is to inspect your windows every year and sealing any gaps you discover. A small hole left unrepaired can result in water leaking into your home which can make your home uncomfortable but also increases your energy bills.

Many of the windows in modern homes are made with double- or triple-paned IGUs. Each pane provides an additional layer of insulation that keeps the cold out in the winter months and the heat in summer. These types of windows are commonplace, and the insulating benefits they provide are well worth their cost. Even brand new homes can be susceptible to seal failure.

The causes of damage to seals to windows are a bit nebulous. The framing around your windows can shift due to natural settling, wood expansion and contraction, or rot over time which can put pressure on window seals. The IGU can crack or break and result in the seal failing.

Act quickly if you notice that the seal is broken which causes a hazy look to the glass, and also a fogging in the window. In the event that it doesn’t, the fogging could get worse as humidity levels in the outdoor fluctuate. Based on the climate, humid air can also leak into the space between the frame and window where it could cause mold and corrode metal.

Repairing a leaking window is a simple task. Clean the frame and glass with a damp cloth and linseed oils. Once the area is dry, you can seal any cracks with caulk. There are many kinds of caulk available, but silicone is the most suitable choice for wooden windows because it is strong and flexible in extreme temperatures. If you have a window seal replacement with gaps that are too large to be filled with caulk. You can use rope caulk ($7 from The Home Depot), which can be used to seal different materials and isn’t affected by weather change.