A window sash is a crucial component of any standard window, playing a key role in its functionality, appearance, and stability. Proper maintenance and regular inspection of window sashes are essential to preserving their condition and ensuring long-term performance. Understanding their purpose and how to care for them can help extend the life of your windows.
What Is a Window Sash?
In any type of window, the sash is the wooden, aluminum, or vinyl casing that surrounds and secures the glass within the window frame. In double-hung windows, both sashes slide up and down on a track while in single-hung windows, one sash is movable while the other stays fixed. In sliding windows, one or more sashes can be movable and in casement and awning windows, the sashes move outward on hinges controlled by a crank. Fixed or picture window sashes do not move.
What is Important About a Window Sash?
The sash secures the glass in place and enhances the window’s overall stability, making it a crucial component of its construction.
Designed to be airtight, the window sash helps prevent air leaks and drafts. Even movable sashes are engineered to maintain a tight seal, improving the home’s energy efficiency. However, over time, this seal can weaken, reducing the window’s effectiveness.
To ensure a secure seal, Great Day Improvements’ vinyl sashes are multi-chambered and reinforced to prevent warping and distortion. A warped, bowed or damaged sash is prone to air leaks, drafts, and other issues affecting home comfort and energy efficiency. A distorted sash may also fail to lock securely and may not move easily.
When to Replace a Window Sash
There are several signs that indicate when a window sash needs replacement. When a sash begins to fail, it may allow air or water to seep into the home or become difficult to open and close. In wooden windows you may notice wood rot and mold developing or see stains on the wood. Gently probing the wood with a screwdriver is one way to check for rot. If the tool sinks into the wood, it’s a sign that the sash needs to be replaced.
If you have older aluminum windows you may notice the aluminum has oxidized and looks dull, chalky and discolored. You may also notice excessive sweating and condensation on the window which can lead to the frame rotting.
Older vinyl windows were generally not reinforced and can become warped over time leading to air leakage, trouble locking, or difficulty in opening and closing the window. You may also notice the horizontal portion of the sash is bowed or sagging.
The Benefits of Quality Replacement Windows
There are many benefits to replacing your old, drafty windows. Replacement windows are more energy efficient keeping your family more comfortable and lowering your energy bills. They are also more secure and can update the look of your home, inside and out. Newer windows are easier to clean, many with tilt-in features allowing you to clean them from the inside.
Ready to Replace Your Windows?
If you’re ready to replace your windows, consult a reputable company that will do an in-home consultation. All Great Day’s window brands will visit your home, assess your windows, and discuss the options for window replacement. Learn more about Great Day Improvements’ replacement windows or use our zip code locator tool to find the right brand for you.
