Home Improvement » Sills

How to replace a windowsill

Editor — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 03:15:02 +0000

You must be aware that the top horizontal frame of the window is the head and the lower horizontal part is the sill. Damaged windowsills not only look unattractive but can also lead to leaking and water damage. You can replace a damaged windowsill or repair the existing ones. Replacing windows and its framework in an older home is a rare thing. New windows in an old house can contribute as much to global energy savings as they lower the homeowner's heating bill. The tools that you would require to replace a windowsill are scissors, cardboard, wood, safety goggles, jigsaw, hand saw, hammer, nails, grip fix, primer, and undercoat and finish paint.

Steps to replace the window-sill

1. Always choose a bright, fine day to work on the window- sills. As this allows you to work without getting drenched and the paint will dry quickly and evenly.

2. Measure up the windowsill using a tape measure. Mark up the wood so it fits the measurements and templates you have taken. You can use the cardboard as a template for the exact shape of sill by cutting it so it fits exactly.

3. Cut the wood along the markings. Nail the windowsills into place and then secure it using grip fix.

4. Coat the fixed windowsill with primer, then undercoat and finally your choice of paint or other finish.

Tips to keep in mind.

a) Choose a fine day to start the work
b) When working with motorised tools always use safety goggles to protect the eyes.
c) Keep hands out of the direct path of any blade or sharp edge.
d) Choose weatherproof paint that matches walls.

In short windowsill replacement is a straightforward procedure. Remove the old window sashes and window frame. Make sure that the window opening is the right size for the new unit. Fill in with blocks of wood if necessary. Install the new window according to the manufacture instructions.

Concrete window sill

Editor — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:00:03 +0000

Windows and window sills add beauty and warmth to the room you happen to be in. these days the windows and sills come in different variety and are made of different types of materials ranging from concrete, wood to vinyl. The concrete is technically a composite because it mixes special fibers with regular concrete. The fibers account for some of the flexibility and strength because they distribute weight evenly throughout the slab. They also flex when met with a lot of pressure. The windowsills made using this technique is called concrete windowsill. The concept of cast stone has become very popular and common in the masonry field. It is believed that cast stone is stronger than most natural building stones. If the windowsill is of cast stone, it can offer the beauty of natural stone with the structural advantages of pre-cast concrete by including reinforcing bars in the design.

To maintain the beauty of the building, the building facades must be designed to prevent concentrated sources of water from reaching the walls. The most important exterior design details are projections and drips – roof overhangs, copings, and windowsills – that protect vertical surfaces.

Waterproof concrete windowsill – in brief

A fixed sash window assembly has a generally rectangular frame holding a pane or panel of glass or other material and installed in an opening in an enclosing wall of a building. The frame includes a sill of extruded metal or rigid plastic material internally comprising a substantially horizontal frame. They are to be mounted directly on a window base on the foundation of the building. The exterior flange has its top end portion held against the panel via an exterior sealing strip. A series of drain holes are formed in the web, just interiorly of the exterior frame, for draining the water that may flow through the exterior sealing strip.

One of the depending frames of the web, disposed most exteriorly, has a horizontal ledge extending exteriorly there from beyond the window base into underlying relation to the drain holes in the web. A wet sealing compound can thus be filled in between the horizontal ledge of the exterior leg and the foundation of the building without the possibility of clogging up the drain holes. A drain shield depending from the exterior end of the web further protects the drain holes against the backflow of water up there through. This prevents the water from entering the interiors of the room through the windowsill.

Window sill repair

Editor — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:45:02 +0000

Repairing a window sill has pretty much become a simplified affair, what with the advent and success of prefabricated windows and sills, trims and accessories for home improvement; it is just a matter of having the basic tools and the time and will to do it on your own.

A guide to window sill repair

The overall view towards window sill repair can be explained roughly in three important stages: taking out the old sill, cutting a replacement sill (or ordering one to exact measurements) and installing it. The first step would be to take the overall measurement for the dimensions of the windowsill, like width, length and thickness.

Next, the removal of the sash channel trim and side pieces of casing trim is required to get access to the sill, which may call for working it loose with a small pry bar. The pry bar may need to be rested on a scrap lumber to keep it from marking any other trim/wall.
After this, all the leftover nails in the walls and window jamb need to be pulled out with pliers through the back of the trim. The old sill is ready for removal now and this must be done with care. The old sill can be used as a template for the new one and the replacement lumber should be purchased along with 6d and 8d finish nails.

When the pattern of the old sill has been traced onto new lumber, it can be cut with a saber saw and using a fine-toothed blade, a smooth finish can be achieved.

Finishing touch to window sill repairs

After the new sill has been cut finely, there may be scope for a bit of sanding to even out exposed end grain cuts and then the fitting in can be done with the help of a few nails to hold it in place.

The trim can be repositioned with another few nails and then secured all over by countersinking them with a nail set. Wood putty can be used for filling in all nail holes and the sill is ready for painting or staining, whichever is preferred for the dcor in the room.

Window sill construction

Editor — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 08:45:03 +0000

The main function of a window sill is to channel water away from the building and for this feature to work its best for many years to come, there is need for quality designing, materials and construction. The materials popularly used for window sill construction today are slate, limestone, granite, marble, synthetic materials like PVC and of course, the age old favorite- timber or wood.

Things to keep in mind for window sill construction

For the best results of a window sill in diverting water away from the building, the constructor should keep in mind that the top surface should slope downward and away from the building.
If the window sill is made of brick, then the sloping should be a minimum 15 degrees from the horizontal position and this obviously will vary in accordance with the sill configuration of the window unit, especially if it is a wood window.
The window sill, when being constructed, should be developed and calculated such that it extends at least 1inch beyond the face of the wall, at the nearest point. However, the possibility may also be considered that the brick units at the end of the sills be un cored so that no cores are exposed to the view.

Changing trends in window sill construction

Over the years, window sills that were used in brick masonry construction were built in place. This was done by conventional construction practices but a new trend has emerged during the last few years, which has seen the use of prefabricated sills, especially when combined with a spandrel. The earlier use of prefabricated brick, pre-cast concrete or stone sills had a regular feature that was common to all – they all had section lengths as long as was practical and this proved to be the reason for the window sill's ability to resist erection stresses. Therefore, modern constructors of window sills are advised to keep the length of sill sections limited to a length that can easily be handled by equipment already on the jobsite and ensuring that the joints between long sill sections are constructed using a soft joint.

Designing aspects of window sill construction

The designer should keep in mind that the function of the sill is detailed and the aesthetic value not compromised in making it only functional in the basic sense. He can combine the structural ability and economics of construction without compromising on the artistic appeal of a window sill by choosing good quality material and a little forethought.

Window sill candles

Editor — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:45:03 +0000

Window sills have always been places for extended use by avid home makers and decorators alike. The purpose of an ordinary window sill would be to offer support to the structure of window and provide a resting place for oddities like a broken latch, a cup of tea, the misplaced spectacles or even pens and pencils. However, rising above the mundane and not simply relegating window sills to mere strips of cement or timber for such things, would require a creative mind – like that of a kitchen garden enthusiast or a hobby crafter who would display their 'wares' on this very ordinary piece of the window.

Occasions for window sill candles:

A festive occasion would call for lights and what better way to draw attention to pretty curtains and poles that accentuate the event with candles. From time immemorial, candles have denoted light, joy, rebirth, and happiness and provided a sense of tranquility and serenity with their warm, gentle glow as opposed to the harsher cousins of illumination like fluorescent lights. For those that love to decorate their homes according to the season, there is the option of autumnal window sill candles to inspire and draw the onlookers closer in to the magic of autumn with vine and berry tapers. Some come with rings and can be placed on chandeliers and decorative votive candles are ever-present too- for variety and a touch of color. Spring, summer and winter bring their own symbolic candles for the window sill and crafters can add their personal touch with pine cones, seasonal flowers, dried herbs and special candle dish holders which can be painted or polished to add to the charm of a well illuminated window with these special flames of light.

Window sill candles as gifts:

As these candles are specially made and feature signs for seasonal events or familiar times, it could be a welcome gift at holidays and parties or even at house warming events for friends and family. Windows give a welcome look into the soul of a house and who can deny the blessings of sunlight, fresh air, a friendly face or a smile that can match the warmth, glow and light that is provided by candles meant for the window sill. This window treatment can be further enhanced if one can combine it with decorative dishes or stands to place these candles into, so to make the presence of this present felt, a great buy is the base of the candle or fancy holders.

Replacing Window Sill Panels

Editor — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 10:00:04 +0000

A portion of the window ledge that stretches into the interior or the exterior of a room is known as a window sill. Also referred to as a window stool, window sills are horizontal and can vary in size and width. Wood, PVC, stone such, as slate, granite or marble are materials that are used to make window sills. Window sills add to the beauty of the home dcor. They can be left untouched or can be used to accommodate a potted plant or to display some decorative stuff.

Window sill panels maintenance

Window sills face the harshness of the elements and hence tend to decay if wooden, peel off if synthetic and pale if painted. They can also chip off or break if stone has been used and may develop cracks or cuts. Regular maintenance and cleaning is essential to keep the window sills looking great. When window sill panels look in need of repair, the best option is to replace them. Replacing window sill panels requires some skill and aesthetic sense. If you are thinking of changing the window sill from wood to PVC or stone or the other way about, you need to first match it with the dcor of your house.

Replacing window sill panels

If a window sill panel is made of wood, chances are that they may rot or decay in some time. To replace it with another window sill panel, you need to first remove the exterior trim of the window sill. First using a knife to score a caulk around the outside of the window frame and then using a pry bar to remove the panel can do this. Take out the window frame and check for the extent of rotting that has taken place. It is advisable to change the entire sill than just one portion of it. Replace the rotten window sill panel with new cedar wood or other wood sill to fit in place and nail to the surface. Once you are satisfied with the fit and size of the new window sill panel, fit the window back into its place. Paint the entire structure to give a uniform look.

Exterior window sill

Editor — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:00:02 +0000

An opening constructed in a wall or a roof and functioning to admit light or air to an enclosure, usually framed is known as windows. The bottom horizontal frame or part of the window is known as the windowsill. In some buildings may have a sill protruding outside like a platform. That is called the exterior windowsill. In the exterior sills you can keep flower pots, which adds beauty to the room. When you're in an apartment with no outdoor space at all but have a few big windows with exterior sills, you can actually put your plants on the exterior sill. This will make a windowsill garden.

You can replace the exterior windowsill incase it is damaged. To replace the exterior sill you have to remove the inside window stool and apron if the window is trimmed. Cut the exterior sill in half the width provided the jamb is in fair condition. Slip the new sill in place and screw the sill to the jambs. Putty the screw holes. Paint sill and install interior stool and apron. It is not necessary to take out the window or the interior casing.

Types of exterior windowsill

1. Most popular natural stone exterior sill is the limestone windowsill. Sills of limestone protect against damage from moisture entering underneath the window. They also add architectural beauty and lasting value to the building. They are easily trimmed to fit in the exterior of the windows and are tough enough to stand the test of time. The stone sills are available in buff, gray or full color blend.

2. Wood is also an adaptable material and with proper care your wooden sills last a lifetime. If the sill is wooden, perform an annual exterior inspection. Remove and replace loose and cracked putty.

3. Brick windowsills are also very common but brick sills are generally not recommended. If brick sill is used a continuous waterproof flashing material must be used. They are mostly preferred in drier parts of the country and low-rising housing with a protective overhung roof.

With the exterior windowsills becoming popular, installing exterior window shutters have become a trend. They are available in many shapes and sizes. They add colour and style to a home. These shutters are available either in wood or in vinyl or plastic. They are inexpensive and easily available in home improvement stores.

Cat Window Sill

Editor — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 17:15:04 +0000

Every house, office or business centres have windows. The purpose of the windows is to let in air and light. But have you ever noticed that it is the different parts put together that make up a window. The windowpane slides within a window frame. The top horizontal part of the frame is called the head and the lower horizontal part of the window frame is called the sill. So you can say that the windowsill is the flat piece of wood, stone or the like at the bottom of the window frame. Every one loves a room with a view, so do the cats.

Do you have cats as pets?

You must have noticed that cats love to look out of windows. They love to be warm. Cat window sills are nothing but window seats for the world's most pampered feline. Today market is flooded with accessories like soaps, shampoos, combos, bows and ties and also window seats for our feline pet.

The cats love to be off the ground for security and love to be warm. The seats can be fit to the windows with sills or can be adjusted to be fixed to the windows without sills too. The windowsill seats come in different shades and materials. Let's take a quick look at it.

a) Hammock model is the combination of window perch/sleeping hammock provides security; warmth and curiosity satisfaction perched from watchtower. Movable, it can be relocated to any window or positioned over warm air ducts.

b) Thermo kitty sill is designed specifically to pamper the cat with a thick orthopedic pad. The cover is removable and machine washable too. Thermostat element is buried deep within the orthopedic foam. The heater is removable for year round use.

c) Heated window sill cat bed which is easy to assemble and adjustable to any windowsill. It supports over 40 pounds of weight. The feature is that the bed will remain 12 degrees to 15 degrees above ambient air temperature and warm to 102 degree when in use. Its recommended for year -round indoor use.

Just remember one thing:

Every pet – whether cats or dogs, you can shape and mold its own bed. When you purchase a cat windowsill, buy the one which can be fixed to the window with a sill or without a sill. Also remember to buy one which machine washable without removing the cover.

Vinyl window sill

Editor — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:00:04 +0000

Home, interior and dcor have always been top of the list for all house-proud Americans since the advent of lifestyle stores, designers, decorators and manufacturers – all going a long way to ensure that this interest in home improvement and enhancement is sustained for better living. Therefore it comes as no surprise that not only is the home, furniture and furnishings of importance to home owners but also fixtures like window sills and trims.

Benefits of vinyl window sills:

When we speak of window sills, the first picture that probably comes to mind is of wood sash windows in the older cottages and homes which utilized timber and had functional sloped wood sills to drain water away. But over a period of time, as more improvements set in and decorators and owners alike realized that timber could not stand the ravages of modern living styles, newer materials like aluminum and vinyl were introduced for window sills. The revolutionary use of vinyl pocket windows began after the mid 1960's and brought about increased energy efficiency while at the same time reducing the cost of heating homes – a boon for all those who have to shell out huge sums of money in the cold winter months for excessive use of electricity.

Yet another advantage of this new material called vinyl is that windows made of these are said to be virtually maintenance free- they do not require painting or reconditioning like wooden window sills. The only option for rotting window sills was to replace the worn out timber with aluminum but with the invention of vinyl, home owners have recognized the utility of a strong and aesthetic solution to the problem, without having to resort to wrapping the wood with aluminum; for, even though aluminum is a more durable material than wood, it still has to be painted-unlike Vinyl, which comes without these requirements and is easy on the pocket too. If there is still some rot in the wood, it can be repaired with filler, then installed with a vinyl cover and Voila! -the window sill is as good as new!!

Window sill lights

Editor — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 03:45:03 +0000

The term window sill lights used in the every day context would cover those lights that are used in the homes of people who have culinary leanings as well as gardening hobbies so use these lights in their kitchen garden to provide their pet plants with light when there is insufficient sunlight. Most herbs require regular sunlight for a minimum of 5 to 6 hours and not every kitchen garden lover is blessed with that much of sunlight so they are aided in the nourishment of their plants by artificial window sill lights that do the job for them. These are available in the form of fluorescent lights or special grow lamps, which work just as well for over 15 hours a day to provide illumination to pots of herbs and other such plants which, are window sill tenants.

Holiday flavor to window sill lights:

The other context that the term 'window sill lights' may be used in is more festive. The lights featured in this category are primarily those used as symbols of holiday hospitality. These kinds of window sill lights are easy to install with candle cup hooks between sill and window with long cords stretching to 8 feet long and convenient thumb switches. One has to just purchase the bulbs to go with it and the sizes to these lights vary from company to company, but most are 4 inches to 7 inches high with cords in white, brown or specially designed for the season colors sometimes.

These window sill lights can be used on shelves, on side tables, inside a cupboard or in covered patios too and when used with silicone light bulbs, they shed a gentle glow, much like those of candles. The lights are easy on the eye and use the same power as a standard candle light bulb so there is no fear of a fat electricity bill. Great for window sills, as night lights and romantic evenings-or anywhere that a soft, luminous effect is needed, window sill lights have expanded in scope with ideas and needs.

Stone window sill

Editor — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:00:07 +0000

Window sills are made of many different materials, but the most hardwearing and durable are the ones made of stone. The primary function of a window sill is to drain away water from the building and the stone window sills do this best as they can better withstand the extremities of weather unlike the other construction materials like wood, PVC and aluminum.

Advantages of stone window sills

The most important feature and advantage of a stone window sill is that it normally requires fewer joints than brick window sills and therefore reduces the possibilities and avenues of water penetration- a problem that persists with the latter. A stone window sill in a cavity wall construction has to also be sloping away from the building and at the ends towards the center beyond 15degrees from the horizontal for it to perform its function of draining water away, to its optimum.

Recent trends and changes in stone window sills

In the recent years, the construction industry has grown to accommodate the modern user's needs and weather conditions best for stone window sills requirements of a standard level. It has been established that wherever stone window sills are used, they should have section lengths as long as it is practical and the constructor or designer should keep in mind that the length of the stone window sill should be easy to handle and withstand the stress it will undergo while being erected. The joints that appear between long sill sections should be constructed using a soft joint and the very long runs; the need for expansion joints may also arise at the ends where the sill abuts the window jamb.

Essential features of stone window sills and their functions

In a concrete or a stone window sill, there are cavities or air spaces that may be interrupted and flashings may need to be provided to increase the functionality and durability of the sill as these work as collectors for any moisture penetrating the wall or sill. The next important feature in a stone window sill is a drip which prevents water from returning to the exterior face of the wall and this is usually formed or cut into the bottom face of the sill. This can be a V-shape, rectangular, semi-circular or round, or even a combination of sorts. Lastly, there are Weep slots or small openings that allow water to escape, which would otherwise have accumulated and deteriorated the value and utility of the stone window sill.

Interior Window Sill

Editor — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 12:00:29 +0000

An interior window sill is that portion of the window ledge that stretches or protrudes into the interior of the room. The window ledge is horizontal and the interior window sill, which is horizontal and is next to the window sash when the window is closed. The interior window sill is also referred to as the window stool. Window sills may be made of wood, PVC, slate, granite or marble and even blue limestone.

Interior window sill use

Interior window sills may just be part of the dcor or may be used for display. Artifacts, curtains, flower vases or even dolls to suit your style of decoration. Potted plants may also be kept on the interior window sills if they do not require too much watering. Adding thick curtains to the window enhances the effect window sills have on the interior decoration of the house and can also come handy when placing little trinkets or treasures.

Interior window sill types

Interior window sills are made of different materials. They are available in slate, limestone, granite, marble and the traditional wood. Modern day interior window sills are also made of synthetic materials like PVC. Old wooden boards can be replaced with new PVC window sills, which could have rounded, or straight angles. You can also use decorative end caps to give your interior window sill a designer look.

PVC interior window sill features

Modern day interior dcor combines safety with aesthetics. Besides giving your home a designer look, PVC interior window sills also combine other important features. These PVC designer interior window sills are water resistant and fire resistant as well. Being easy to clean and maintain, these interior window sills also do not peel off or chip off like in wooden interior window sills. These window sills are also comparatively light in weight when compared with marble or granite window sills

Interior window sill care

Interior window sills must be cleaned and maintained to keep giving your home a clean look. You must not clutter up the window sill and remember it is not a dumping ground for your stuff. Keep it looking new and clean and dress it up well with curtains or plants or may be a doll or two.

New Window Sill

Editor — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:45:49 +0000

Window sills have been in existence right from ancient times when huge houses had huge windows. Earlier window sills were not meant for anything more than dcor value, but today new window sills are increasingly being built for designer and decorative purposes. New window sills are also used to display potted plants, rich curtains, flower vases, antiques or just dolls. Earlier made of wood or stone, new window sills are now made of PVC, slate, granite or marble or even limestone.

New window sill use

Whether used in the interior or exterior of the room, a window sill finds many uses. You can display antiques or potted plants or simply decorate with curtains if windows are often opened. If you have a window that is low in height, you can also use the sill panel as a hand rest or use it when indulging in some hobby like writing or painting while making the most of the natural light available through the window. New window sills are increasingly being used in an attractive manner to enhance the interiors of the rooms in a house.

New window sill types

New window sills are now increasingly made from different materials besides traditionally used wood. Although wooden window sills are still considered the best when putting up a new window sill, many home and office owners have also started using synthetic materials like PVC and stone such as marble, granite or slate. Limestone is also being considered as an option. Old wooden boards can be replaced with new PVC window sills, which could have rounded, or straight angles. You can also use decorative end caps to give your new window sill a designer look.

New window sill styles

Modern day interior dcor combines safety with aesthetics. Besides giving your home a designer look, PVC interior window sills also combine other important features. They could also be given a designer look in terms of shape or curves. If you are artistic and want even your window sill to reflect your taste and expression, you can choose the colors, the design and the look for your new window sill and really style it up.

Rotted window sill

Editor — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:16:09 +0000

When we talk about a window it would be the word used to describe a structure that has a head, two jambs and a sill basically. It may be divided horizontally and for this a transom may be used; for a vertical division, a mullion is used. The area of glass used in a window is called the light and the opening of this is called the casement (if it is hinged) and the sash (if it is sliding). A sill to the window would be the lower edge of this structure, which may be made of steel, aluminum or timber, but since the matter here pertains to a rotted window sill, it is obvious that the window sill affected by it is made of wood.

Signs of rot in window sills:

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, there are many tell tale signs of damage to window sills, among which the commonest are those signifying deterioration due to rot. This may be manifested in various forms like the wooden window sill getting stained or the wood becoming soft. The main point of concern here would be if this damage is caused due to the noticeable presence of black or yellow fungus or insects, or in some cases, both these elements.

If the window sill in question is made of wood that has been painted then a soft indentation or depression under the surface of the paint may be hinting at the rot that has set in.

To ascertain the extent of rotting of the window sill, one could probe the spot with an ice pick or screwdriver and determine whether the wood is soft or spongy. If the beam of the window sill shows more than 15per cent damage, then serious structural repair may be required, if not replacement. A pressure-treated replacement will prevent this problem from occurring again but thanks to the invention and successful use of handy epoxy patches that are easily available in the market, this 'rotten' problem of window sills have a quicker and more economical fix for home owners in the present day. Most repair kits contain a consolidator that hardens any wood and a two-part epoxy; which, when properly mixed and used with the appropriate fillers, prove to be stronger than the original wood.

Window Sill

Editor — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 09:45:03 +0000

A windowsill is that portion of the window, which has the primary function of channeling water away from the building. This may be a single unit or consist of multiple units and can either be built in place or store brought as there are excellent grades of prefabricated sills available in the market today that are constructed out of various materials.

Window Sill features

Though the main function of a windowsill was to drain water away from the home or building, it has been developed over the years to provide other uses and thus, designers and masons alike have adapted the windowsill to suit simple to decorative usage and thereby have added to its humble features. Windowsills can be rectangular or square, depending on the window they are placed outside; they can be angular or curved and be straightforward or have decorative caps, as the owner may decide.

Materials used for Window Sills

As the window sill ledge is horizontal and is next to the window sash, it can also be used for decorative purposes so a wide variety of materials can be used for its construction, if the need is to draw attention to the area. In all other average cases, the most popular materials used for construction of window sills are wood, PVC, slate, granite, marble or even blue limestone. Window Sills that are used for brick masonry are constructed with brick, concrete, stone or metal and the selection of the material is very important for the required effect of the sill. The last three materials have the distinct advantage over others, as they require fewer joints as compared to brick sills, thereby providing reduction in the possibilities of water penetration- a problem most window sills face.

Maintaining the aesthetic value of a Window sill

The Window Sill can be especially shaped to create a sense of beauty and artistic appeal to the building and differently shaped units that are manufactured or cut to a special shape are usually more eye-catching than the simpler versions. Most manufacturers of Window Sills are ready to meet the demand for special shapes with a choice of colors and textures; these units may be more costly. The use of a contrasting color as compared to that of the wall it is constructed on or a different texture is likely to enhance the appeal as can the presence of a kitchen garden, planters or window sill lights.

Wood window sill

Editor — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 13:30:04 +0000

Where the traditional look of genuine wood is preferred, home owners overlook the other options for window sills like aluminum, PVC and stone as the warmth and finish that can be achieved in good quality timber cannot be replaced by the best of high grade sundry other materials.

A wood window sill is the choice of many

The primary reason why a wood window sill is the choice of many discerning homeowners is that is looks good and is all weather while at the same time affording the building a classic or contemporary look, as may be desired, for wood is so adaptable that there is a lot of scope for designing and developing it further for a window sill.

Attributes of wood window sill

Another reason why wood window sills are the preferred choice of most homeowners is that while wood is strong, it also insulates well and has a natural appeal while retaining the warm and welcoming feel of coming back home, as natural as our roots. If it needs exterior maintenance, then there are paint, polish and varnish options and it can be stained in many ways to give different looks so offers a wider choice to customers than do other materials. A wood window sill can be finished in a number of ways and therefore very popular too.

Advantages of a wood window sill

A wood window sill can be used in a number of ways and this increases the utility factor for many homeowners. It can serve dual purposes of draining water away and serving as a kitchen herb garden, or a counter for setting out jams and pickles, a hobby craft display unit and good place to advertise-if the house is road facing and also the ideal base for a birdcage or candles and other decorative for festive times and holidays. On the financial front too, wood and vinyl win hands down over other materials for window sills as these cost less for the average window with a general price tag of $100-$250 for replacement windows, if needed, though this figure may be different for urban customers or dependant on manufacturers. They are energy efficient and not as affected by temperature extremes and condensation as other materials used for window sills.

Window sill weep

Editor — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 12:15:04 +0000

A window sill has the basic function of keeping away water from the walls and the window but there are times when an air cavity or space can be interrupted or blocked, leading to the accumulation of water and moisture in the window sill; to prevent this for happening, a window sill weep is very important.

Purpose of a Window sill weep

A weep hole is a small opening that is designed to allow water to escape that might have otherwise collected in the window sill. A weep flap further allows the window sill to function at its optimum best as it is a vinyl flap that covers the weep hole so the water escapes and insects can also be kept out, at the same time.

Allotment/placing of a window sill weep

A window sill weep slot in the sill member or the bottom, is accommodated in the sash frame of the window and provides an outdoor release to the rainwater that may infiltrate the building. Materials and workmanship by themselves are insufficient to ensure that the cavity wall performance is best at all times and so, proper detailing and correct placing of weep slots is necessary for window sills to serve their purpose. Even the cavity walls constructed with the finest materials by the most skilful masons can suffer the results of poor detailing like the allotment of weeps.

Window sill weep adds value and life to a window sill

A window is subject to harsh and demanding weather conditions and change of environmental factors so is prone to wear and tear due to the elements of nature. It needs the protection of a window sill to keep away rainwater and the sill in turn, needs weeps installed in the exterior masonry wall construction to collect and divert moisture that penetrates the outside of the sill and wall. The air space separating the masonry must be kept clear of mortar droppings and other obstruction that may bridge air space, for which good workmanship is a strong asset. This will add life and durability to the window sill and keep it working as best as it should.

Replacing window sill walls

Editor — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 02:15:08 +0000

The need to replace window sill walls would normally arise for homes that were built before the 1960's- a time when the preferred building style was to have wood sash windows. These types of windows have sloped sills made of wood outside and the main function of this feature was to drain water away from the window.

There is the option of a pressure-treated replacement, which nips the problem in the bud and chances of recurrence are minimal but a faster and more economical solution would be an epoxy patch as an effective quick fix method. Most repair kits have a consolidator that hardens any wood as well as a two-part epoxy and if properly mixed and used with the necessary fillers, structural epoxies are stronger than the original wood. Replacing a window sill is relatively simple. One would be to take out the old sill and then cut a replacement for it and install the same.

Simple steps for replacing window sill walls:

First take the overall measurements of the window sill walls for width, length and thickness and then remove the sash channel trim and side pieces of casing trim to get access to the sill. With a small pry bar, work away any loose trim and rest this bar on a scrap lumber to keep it from spoiling other walls. Then pull away all nails or jambs from the window with pliers through the back of the trim. Using the old sill as a template for replacement, slowly ease it away with as little damage as possible. The pattern of the old sill can be traced directly on to the new lumber or precise measurements made for the same and then this can be cut out with a saber saw. Use of a fine toothed blade would give a smooth finish to the cuts made and reduce the need for hours of sanding, which may be restricted only for the grain cuts that are on the surface. The new sill can be fitted in place using a couple of nails and the same holds true for the trims that were removed. For added security, countersink all nails with a nail set and fill all nail holes with wood putty. Paint or wood stain to match the dcor would be the finishing touch required to round off the window sill replacement in your wall.

Window sill height

Editor — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 11:15:03 +0000

The height of a window sill is very crucial in the design plan of a window and the building in general as they not only provide the basic function of water channeling away from the building but if constructed with care, can also provide a support and preventive base for minimization harm that could be caused to people coming in use with it. A national survey of all major cities in America states that falls of all kinds represent an important cause of child injury and death.

Importance of window sill height factor

Policy statements by pediatricians and national surveyors and welfare committees alike state that falls from heights can have preventive strategies in place apart from measures like parental counseling, quality checks on construction, legislation, environmental modification and building code changes. While the installation of window guards apart from the addition of window sill drips and rails is recommended for balcony railings, in urban areas and multiple story buildings as well as low-income housing, this can prove to be a challenge in implementation. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) communicated some years ago that after extensive study of children falling from heights, strategies have been recorded for effectiveness which require changes in the physical environment, especially window safety and spacing of railing, existence of window sills being of a certain height and projection. Apart from this fear factor, the height of the window sill is important for those on the ground floor as well as it may not provide the necessary function of water drainage if the slope and height of the sill is not calculated precisely to suit the window requirement.

Building codes for window sill heights

Though building codes for many communities in the US requires railings for window sills through which a child cannot pass, local building codes dealing with new construction differs from area to area when compared to national codes. Most of these codes specify railing heights of 36 inches and although an increase in the height to 4 or 5 feet would add protection, aesthetic interests are likely to impede any efforts towards modification in this practice. Despite the proven effectiveness of window sill heights of a standard level, it is slow in being put into regularized use by builders as major cities are slow to adopt codes that challenge aesthetic appeal of windows.

Window sill trim

Editor — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:00:03 +0000

It can be a do-it-yourself project, provided one has basic carpentry skills and the right tools. The stool-and-apron design with mitered casing is simple and practical so, beginning with a miter saw and leading up to more is recommended. To make the trim sit flat, any bit of drywall at corner needs to be removed and shaving uneven hair off a miter may be required to make a tight joint.

Guide to measuring and making the trim:

To ascertain how much molding is needed, first measure the windows. Power miter saws are good for this work if one is adept at using them safely and setting up a large window fan on "exhaust" to draw out the dust is a convenience for working well. A worktable or a sawhorse is a good bet on which the cutting of a length of window stool that is 1-1/2 in. longer than the outside dimension of the installed casing can be done. Marking the center of the angled sill and the stool and aligning the two marks is required while keeping in mind that the stool horns should project equally out from the side of the casing as it does from the front.

It is wise to wear safety glasses while doing so. Round over the ends of the horns and tack the stool to the rough sill with 8d finishing nails 10-in. on-center. After this, the cutting of the jamb extension can be done by ripping strips of 3/4-inch stock to the desired thickness for a full-length head-jamb extension, gluing and nailing it to ensure 1/16 to 1/8-inch of the head jamb is exposed. Head casing is marked with a 3/16-inch reveal on side and head jambs and then cutting a 45-degree miter on both ends of the head casing; tacking the casing to the jamb with 4d finishing nails and to the framing with 8d or 10d casing or finishing nails is to be done. By miter cutting each side casing and gluing miters, the joints can be locked with a final nail from top to side for side casing.

For a neat and detailed trim, a mitered return on ends of the apron would give a good finish. The scrap moldings can be used if short and glued and nailed to the apron to form a 90-degree corner at each end. On drying, the leftover can be scraped and the apron nailed to the wall framing and through the 6d finishing nails, slightly below the surface. If planning to paint the trim, then filling the holes with wood putty and sanding it smooth is recommended but if only wanting to stain and varnish, then this filling is done afterwards by filling nail holes using crayon-like putty sticks.