How To
How to Repair Windows, Improve Home's Appearance
By
Sep 25, 2005, 20:51

(NUI) - If, as the saying goes, "eyes are the windows to the soul," then surely windows say plenty about a home.

If you've decided it's time for a new "outlook," then you are in luck - window sash replacement has never been easier. With older houses, replacing the sash - the moving parts of the window - in rotting, leaking or rattling double-hung windows will not only help with that "face-lift" but also increase your energy savings.

Before you begin the project, consult a local window dealer for help in selecting the double-hung replacement sash that will work best for your home and geographic location. Energy efficiency, maintenance requirements and aesthetics should all be factored into your decision. Once you've selected the appropriate sash replacement kit, you will need precise measurements to ensure your new sash fits the existing window.

When determining the space designated for a new sash, accuracy means everything. Measure two or three times, just to be sure. There are three basic dimensions you will need to measure: squareness, height and width.

First, carefully measure the bottom left corner to top right corner. Then, do the same with the bottom right corner to top left

corner. If the two dimensions are equal, the opening is square.

Now, grab a tape measure and measure the inside height of your frame. Feed the tape measure between where the top sash reaches and the bottom sash rests on the sill. To determine the angle of the sill, you might want to invest in an angle finder, found at most hardware stores.

Next, determine the width of your frame from the inside face of one jamb to inside face of another, across the bottom of the opening. When you are reading from the tape measure, make sure you account for the bend.

Now you are ready to choose the best new window sash for your home. Jeld-Wen offers many wood and clad wood double-hung window replacement products including ZapPack and SashPack. You can visit www.jeld-wen.com to help in the process of selecting the sash replacement product that is right for your home.

Once you have installed the new window sash, you'll wonder why you didn't do it earlier. It's so easy, and the economical savings cannot be ignored. Of course, nothing is quite as satisfying as receiving compliments on home improvements, proving once again that it's never too late for a brand new "outlook."

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