Sash replacement kits preserve look of older windows
Q. I want to save energy in my older house and I know my wood windows are inefficient. I want to keep the character of my house, but keep costs down. What options do I have other than replacement windows?
A. Old windows are an area of significant energy loss during winter (heat gain during summer). Installing new replacement windows is the most energy-efficient window improvement you can make, but as you mentioned, the cost is quite high. In many homes, it can take quite a few years for the energy savings to payback the cost of replacement windows.
Since you want to retain the appearance and character of your older house, consider installing sash replacement kits. This is the next most efficient option after installing completely new windows. Most of the kits are designed to allow the window sashes to tilt in, similarly to new double-hung windows, making it easy to clean the entire glass area from indoors.
From an initial cost standpoint, the sash replacement kit material costs are only slightly less than completely new replacement windows. This is because they offer the same super-efficient glass options as new windows and there is some addition hardware not used in new replacement windows. Installing a kit can be a do-it-yourself job, so the initial lower cost results from the fact the labor costs are eliminated.
Before selecting this option, make sure your existing window frames are in good condition. Carefully inspect the old window frames. The old window sashes will be replaced, so don't worry about them. Use a small probe to check an suspect spots to be sure there are no serious rotten areas. Don't forget to check window weight cavities inside the frame.
Talk with the technical experts at the sash kit manufacturer to determine what type of glass is best for your needs. The climate in your area is generally the primary factor, but there may also be concerns for privacy, security, passive solar heat gain, decorative appearance, etc. You will likely select different glass types for different windows in your house and different orientations to the sun.
Most sash replacement kits include all of the hardware (jamb liners, locks, fasteners, tilt-in pivots or cams) and the sashes with the efficient glass already installed. Sizes in one- or two-inch increments make it easy to fit them to most existing window frames.
To install a sash replacement kit yourself, first remove the old window sashes. This involves prying off the existing wooden sash stops and lifting out the old sashes. Any window weights are no longer needed so fill the pockets with foam insulation. The new sash liners are held in place with clips. Install the new sashes and tilt-in pivots into the liners.
The following companies offer tilt-in sash kits: Crestline Windows, (800) 826-5509, www.crestlinewindows.com; Kolbe, (715) 842-5666, www.kolbe-kolbe.com; Marvin Windows, (888) 537-7828, www.marvin.com; Peachtree, (800) 732-2499, www.peachtreedoor.com; and Weather Shield, (800) 222-2995, www.weathershield.com.
Q. I plan to remodel my bathroom. It currently has carpeting on the floor. I want to remove it and install ceramic tile. Should I remove the toilet and put tile under it or just run the tile up to it?
A. It is always better to run the tile under the toilet. When you remove the carpeting, make sure to check the condition of the subflooring around the toilet. If there have been any leaks, it may be weakened.
When you add tile, the toilet will be slightly higher over the drain in the floor. You may have to install longer hold-down bolts and you will definitely need a taller wax ring or a doubled ring to seal over the drain.
• Write to James Dulley at 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.