How to Fix Common Problems With Replacement Sash Windows

Old windows may become stuck or difficult to open when they suffer damage. Replacing the window sash by replacing it with a new one helps to fix these issues and can be installed without replacing the entire frame.

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

Sash Damaged Sash

Even windows with sash that are well-maintained will require attention from time-to-time. Broken cords and rotting sills are frequent issues that could cause replacement. However, in many cases these problems can be addressed without having to replace the entire window.

Broken cords, for instance, are often caused by worn-out window hardware. A quick check of the window hardware can determine if this is the situation. Pam says to pull on the cord and move the sash upwards and down -- if it moves easily and is free of major friction, the sash will probably be fixed.

If there's an excessive amount of rubbing or it's difficult to move the sash the issue could be with the sash itself. Pam suggests spraying silicone or Teflon on the pulleys of the sash to make it easier to open and shut. She also recommends fixing any broken hardware, such as pulleys that are not aligned properly or missing and sash weights.

Another repair that is easy is to re-insert the wood on the frame by painting the damaged parts. This will shield the wood from further damage and will prevent moisture from entering.

Pam recommends priming the sash with a high-quality primer after lightly sanding the painted surfaces. She recommends a semi-glossure urethane. This will prevent the paint from peeling, flaking or blistering and allow the sash to slide easily.

Pam recommends that when reinstalling the sash, you compare the metal tabs of the new sash with those on the old sash to ensure they're in the right slots. If you don't, the sash will not be able slide up and down. If needed, apply wood filler to smooth out the joint. She suggests that if there are a lot of cracks, the entire sash be replaced.

Water Damage

Poor weather sealing allows moisture to penetrate the frame and cause damage. Untreated, this dampness can lead to wood decay. This is why it's so crucial to examine your sash window regularly. Check for signs of peeling paint, visible mold growth, and rot which could indicate that the sash has been damaged.

In addition to potential health risks, water damaged sashes can be extremely unsightly particularly if they are exposed to sunlight or are in an open area. It is a good idea to consider replacement sash windows with laminated glass to minimize the impact of UV rays on your home.

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

The dimensions, the glazing bars and size of a sash need to be in line with the style of your home. By purchasing new window sash, you will improve the look of your home and make it more comfortable.

If you're noticing that your sash isn't able to move upwards and downwards, this is a sure indication that it needs to be replaced. It can be a frustrating experience to be living with a window that doesn't open and close correctly, making it hard for you to let in fresh air and take advantage of your natural light. It's not expensive to replace a broken sash, and it can help you save money on your energy bills.

Foggy Glass

Foggy windows can be unsightly but they also lower the efficiency of your home and make it difficult to shut and open your windows. There are many ways to address this issue. First, consider sash replacement. These kits are designed to replace the sash, keeping the frame still intact. This is a more cost-effective and easier way to replace your window sash instead of tearing down the existing frame and trimming.

Another alternative is to clean the glass. This might not help the fog, but it could remove dust and debris that may contribute to the issue. You can also lubricate your sash with oil or wax. This will make it easier to move.

If your sash is stuck or jammed in the frame, you may have to replace the balance system. The old-fashioned weighted balancing system is usually constructed from wood, and the components can expand or shrink with the fluctuation of humidity. This can cause the sash become misaligned, making it difficult to open or close. Luckily, the new kits for repairing sash come with coil springs and tackles that replace this system, and keep the sash in its place and moving smoothly up and down.

Rot can also be a problem for sash window. The wood will swell and shrink when humidity changes, and this can cause leaks and cracks in the window. This is a sign that the frame or sash might need to be replaced.

Before making any major decisions, you should consult an expert. They can provide you with suggestions on the best option for your home and your budget. They will also let know whether repairing the window prior to a full replacement is feasible. They may also suggest you consider replacing sash windows that have modern features such as double-glazing and a more efficient design.

Leaky Seals

A damaged window glass replacement seal isn't only costly and annoying; it's dangerous. If condensation develops between your window panes humidity could enter your home and cause mold and other problems. Examining your windows and sealing any gaps that you find is the most effective way to prevent the failure of your seal. Small gaps that are not repaired could cause water to enter your home. This not only makes it uncomfortable, but increases your energy bills.

Many windows in newer homes are made of triple- or double-paned IGUs. Each pane is a second layer of insulation which keeps cold out in the winter months and the heat in summer. These windows are widely used and their insulation properties are worth the cost. Even newer homes can be susceptible to seal failure.

The causes of seal damage to windows are complicated. The frame around your windows can shift due natural settling, wood expansion and contraction, or rot over time that puts pressure on window seals. The IGU can crack or break and cause the seal to fail.

Take action immediately if you discover that the seal is broken which causes a hazy appearance to the glass and also a fogging in the window. The fogging will only worsen when the humidity in the outdoors fluctuates. In accordance with your climate humid air can pass through the window frame, replacement sash windows which could cause corrosion to metal and lead to mold.

Fortunately, repairing windows that leak is easy. First, clean the frame and glass thoroughly using a damp cloth and linseed oil. After the area has dried then you can use caulk to fill the cracks. There are a variety of caulk, but silicone is best for wooden windows. It is pliable and resistant to extreme temperatures. If you have a window with gaps that are too large to fill with caulk, try using rope caulk ($7 from The Home Depot), which can be used to seal different materials and won't be damaged by weather change.