What Is A Dummy Sash Window?
What Is A Dummy Sash Window?
A Dummy sash window is a type of sash window that is used as decoration or for ventilation rather than for actual use. Fixed window panes with ‘dummy’ sashes mimic the appearance of opening windows, causing all visible panes to line up.
They are also known as fake sashes and serve only a decorative rather than a functional purpose. Although there are a number of different designs for these types of sashes, the most common ones are those that simply span the entire width of the window with one or two panes, covering all of it.
The role these dummy sashes play in a home depends on the circumstances surrounding their installation and use. The various types of dummy sash windows include fixed dummy sashes that span the entire width of a window.
Although they can be very decorative for purposes such as providing visual interest and reducing heat loss through heated glass or providing ventilation or light to interior spaces, they are not practical as functional window coverings.
These types of dummy sashes can mimic either four or six-pane windows, although their appearance is virtually indistinguishable from real panes. It can be wood, metal, or plastic. It is most often used in places such as second-floor windows, balconies, stairwells, and on overhangs.
Narrower fixed dummy sashes that span the entire width of a window are used in cases where the room they are installed in doesn’t require ventilation and is light enough to receive sufficient light through other windows or skylights. Slits are cut out of them to allow for some amount of ventilation if needed.
What Is A Spiral Balance Sash Window?
The spiral balance sash window is a type of sash window. Spiral Sash windows are a contemporary take on the traditional weight and pulley system. A spring-loaded device used to counter-balance a Sash in a box sash window is known as a sash balance mechanism (spring balance).
It is used to create a stable frame for the window panes, and to reduce wind speed by deflecting it. The sash sits on two spiral rods which are usually connected together with an axle so that when the rod turns, the sash will rise or fall in tandem.
Spiral balance sash windows should be installed on south-facing walls where thermal transference is the main goal. This type of window is ideal for areas that see a large amount of wind or snow. This type of window is also known as an eccentric sash balance mechanism.
It is made up of two spiraling rods that sit alongside each other and are connected by an axle that’s placed along the bottom edge. The spiral rod can be made out of a variety of materials, but it must be rigid enough to stand up to its function as a balance weight without breaking or bending.
When the sash is lowered into place in the frame, it will meet the spiral rod and will “kiss” them together, forming a seal against outside elements like snow, wind, rain, and debris. This process allows for the windows to be made of a lighter material, such as wood or fiberglass, thus reducing the overall weight.
How Do You Seal A Drafty Sash Window?
The simplest (though perhaps not the most desirable) way to draught-proof a sash window is to permanently close it. Fill in the gaps with flexible filler, reseal the glass with fresh putty as needed, and then paint the entire area.
If you decide to leave it open, you’ll need to rely on some other method of draught-proofing. The following methods of draught-proofing can be used during daylight hours only. Note that they should not be used at night because they will cause the sash to heat up and expand.
Caulking around the window frame (or even between the window panes themselves) is a fast, effective method of repelling external airflow. These are available in various thicknesses and blends; thinner versions are intended for smaller gaps while thicker versions are intended for wider gaps and heavier door or window frames.
Use weather-stripping around the edges of the window frame. This can range from foam strips that are applied to the sides of the sash, to plastic rods that slide well into place. A more elaborate option is a door sweep that attaches around the edge of the door frame and sweeps inward toward the wall when closed.
Slide-type weather-stripping may also be used in conjunction with a small metal board that acts as a stop for the bottom of each sash when it is lowered into place. If you’re using slide-type weather-stripping, make sure it isn’t too long or it will prevent you from raising or lowering your sashes.
