Everything You Need To Know About Window Sills

Holliday Home Improvements has a licensed and insured professional team that can help install your window sills on time and within your budget.

Wood Exterior Window Sill

Window sills are an essential part of a home or a building. It keeps water away from the structure and holds the window in place. They can have various designs made from different materials. If you are imaginative and intelligent, you can create one on your own. Otherwise, it would be a good call to hire a professional to help you install your wood exterior window sill.

Holliday Home Improvements has a licensed and insured professional team that can help install your window sills on time and within your budget.

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What You Need To Know About Window Sills

What Is A Window Sill

A window sill is a horizontal shelf below the window frame. It stabilizes and gives additional support to the window. Without the window sill, water can creep into your building, resulting in a mold build-up. You might find some sources on the internet referring to a window sill as a window ledge, but they are not the same piece.

Types Of Window Sill

In earlier buildings, window sills were made of wood. Wood was popular because it was readily available. The downside of using wood to make window sills is that wood absorbs water and decays eventually. Nowadays, you can choose from a few options, depending on your preferences. The different types include the following:

1. Wood

Window sills are from wood. Recent models are long-lasting because of waterproof protective layers. It is advisable to use wood from internal beams.

2. Tile

Tiles usage is when making bathroom sills. Some old houses and cottages use tiles to make their window sills. They are perfect when you need to decorate your home.

3. Stone

Stone sills are famous in stone and brick buildings. They do not need maintenance or repairs. They’re durable and blend well with the exterior of the house.

4. Metal

Aluminum window sills are cheap. The affordability of the metal has made it popular nowadays. The beams can have drumming sound of raindrops, but some manufacturers include noise suppression tapes to these sills.

5. Plastic

PVC sills are waterproof and resistant to mold. The design is to get the appearance of natural stone marble or wood.

The Purpose Of Window Sill

Window sills serve several functions.

Stability

The window sill prevents any changes from occurring in the window frame and makes the window stable.

Airtightness

The window sill protects your room from the draft, making you home warmer in winter. You will save energy and decrease your bills.

Keeps Water Away

Water will not get into your house when you have a window sill. If water penetrates to your home, it leads to mold growth.

Decorative Purposes

You can place decorative stones, candles, and books on the window sills.

Rest Area

You can grow a garden and spend time in the window. The spot can affect your mood.

Exterior Window Sill

The window sill is not majorly for aesthetic purposes, but you should take great care of it. Think of how to make it look attractive. You can install a window bird feeder or grow plants there.

The window sill essentially protects your home from bad weather. The window is exposed to rain and snow when there is no window sill. They should not be perfectly flat to enable rainwater to flow away from the wall and façade. The window sill should be of good quality to ensure that the water does not leak inside and cause damages.

Maintenance Of A Window Sill

The window sill needs to be well taken care of just like any part of the building. Remove dirt, dust, and bird feathers regularly. You can use a vacuum cleaner, water, cloth, and anti-mold remedy.

In case you notice any mold growth, ensure that you remove it as soon as you can. Mold is dangerous and can get into your lungs. You can hire a remediation company for their services if you cannot remove it.

A thin layer of leather or floor wax will make dirt drip faster. Wind can also blow away dust easily when the surface is smooth. If you have metal sills, ensure that you have a drip edge to avoid rusts.

Replacing Window Sills

The exterior window sill will need replacement after some time. They can decay after ten years.

Aluminum sills can shrink or expand in summer, or warp in winter. You can replace them on your own if you have the required tools. The tools you might need include a hammer, sandpaper, air compressor, nails, new sill, pry bar, and waterproof filler like caulk.

Remove the window sill gently using the pry bar. Pull out all nails and traces of old glue. Be gentle to avoid damaging the walls and window glass.

Repair any cracks on the wall before placing the new window sill. The area should be dried completely before installing the new one. Ensure that the new beam fits perfectly. The possible gaps should be filled with caulk to prevent moisture in the future.