Two Things You Can Do To Seal Off A Window While A Sash Is Being Repaired Or Replaced

Posted on: 4 July 2016

If you have had a recent issue with a smashed window in your home, you may be dreading the expense of a replacement window. In fact, you do not have to replace the entire window, but just the sash. Even with modern windows you should be able to remove the damaged sash and replace it with a new one or have the glass repaired. While that is taking place, here are two things you can do to seal off a window while the missing sash is being repaired or replaced.

Pull Down the Storm Window and the Screen

If your old window has a storm window and/or a screen, pull one or both of these down to act as a temporary window and barrier to the outside. If it is warm enough, you could just pull down the screen, but if you have central air or your heat running, you will want to make sure the storm window is down too. In the event that you do not have a storm window and you only have a screen, pull down the screen and then use one additional method of sealing the window space until the window experts can return with your repaired window or replacement window.

Use Masonite and Duct Tape

For this method:

  1. Measure your window from side to side on the interior space where the sash would normally go. Also measure top to bottom, stopping where the frame of the window cuts through the middle and separates the top half of the window from the bottom.
  2. Then go to a hardware store or a home improvement store and request a small sheet of 1/4" masonite. This is a durable type of wood sheeting material that will do the trick when it comes to sealing a window temporarily.
  3. Ask the store to cut the masonite sheet for you so that you have a piece that fits the dimensions you took of your missing window sash. Do not forget to take the rest of the masonite with you, since you will have to pay for the entire sheet anyway!
  4. Also, purchase a roll of duct tape, if you do not have any at home. It can be any color or pattern you want--it does not have to be the traditional silver duct tape.
  5. Next, position the masonite over the area you took measurements of. Use long strips of duct tape to adhere the masonite to the edges of the window frame. Be sure to overlap some of the duct tape to make it really strong and seal out air leaks and bugs.

Now the window should be sufficiently sealed until your window installation and repair expert can return with the missing sash. For more help, contact a company like JFK Window & Door Co.

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