What is a Window Sash and Why is it Very important?
Your windows are such a necessary feature on your residential property so it's vital to know as much about them as feasible. Knowing the elements of your windows, such as the window sash, will help you stay up to date on them and you'll be able spot any mishaps early.
Plus, the more you know about your home windows, the far better you'll be able to make decisions when it comes to mending or substituting them. The window sash is one of the most important aspects of your windows.
What is a window sash and why is it important? We'll go over everything you need to know about window sashes in this article.
What is a Window Sash?
Thing's first, what's a window sash? In simplest terms, the sash is the section of the window that opens and closes. Depending on the type of window, there could be more than one window sash that's operable.
You might be wondering what makes up the window sashes? Typically, the window sash has a very basic design and structure.
The overall sash is a frame that's designed to be easily placed inside the entire window casement. Within the sash frame, there's the window glass along with any framework that your window may have such as grids.
The sash locks into the window frame on a set of runners that allows it to be moved up and down.
The frame of the window sash usually features a locking system for added safety and security.
Why Are Window Sashes Important?
Window sashes are a crucial element to the overall performance and durability of your windows. If your window sash isn't working properly, that'll lead to a multitude of problems such as leaks and drafts.
It's also important that your window sashes are in good working condition because if they're not, opening and closing your windows will become a pain.
That being said, it's pretty easy to tell when your window sashes are damaged or broken. That could mean you have an alignment problem if your window is hard to open and close and it sticks along the tracks.
Fixing an alignment problem can be done, but if it's is really bad and continues to happen, then you should consider replacing your windows.
Another reason why you need to make sure the sashes are working properly is for safety and security reasons. If the locks are worn out or broken, that poses a major security threat. Anyone can then break into your home with ease.
Also, if you have children and your sash locks don't work, they can easily open the windows which is unsafe.
Not all windows have the same window sashes. Depending on the style of window you have, the window sash or sashes are constructed differently.
For example, double hung windows feature two operating sashes that slide up and down and are very easy to use and clean. You can simply tilt them in to make sure you cover everything while cleaning them.
On sliding windows, the sashes close and open horizontally. Sliding windows are basically the same as double hung, just flipped horizontally.
A casement window sash is a bit different than the traditional sash. Casement windows operate on a crank and open outward to the left or right. The sash is connected to the crank system as opposed to being in the frame along a track.
Awning and hopper windows also have one sash that's operable. Awning windows are hinged at the top and the sash opens outwards with a crank. Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and the sash tilts open inwards.
What to Look For in a Window Sash
Being such a key component of the overall structure and integrity here of the window, it's important to make sure your window sashes are well-constructed.
Living in the Midwest, you know the weather extremes that occur throughout the year. Your windows play a major role in keeping your home comfortable year round.
You'll want to stay away from windows that have wood or aluminum sashes. Wood is extremely susceptible to rotting, warping and expanding and aluminum isn't cut out for the Midwest weather as it doesn't react well to extreme weather conditions.
If you do have wood or aluminum windows and they're out of shape, replacing them immediately is your best option to maintain an energy efficient home.
When it's time to replace your windows, vinyl is the way to go. Vinyl windows are energy efficient and extremely durable. They're perfect for homes in the Midwest because they'll never warp, rot, crack or expand.
Also, be sure the sashes of your new windows have fiberglass reinforced frames and are foam insulated.
In simplest terms, the sash is the section of the window that opens and closes. Depending on the type of window, there could be more than one window sash that's operable.
A casement window sash is a bit different than the ordinary sash. Awning windows are hinged at the top and the sash opens in an outward motion with a crank. Hopper windows are pivoted at the sash and the bottom tilts open inwards.