Luxurious Window Treatments

Archive for the ‘Window Sill’ Category

The interior window sill in most homes can afford another space to be used to showcase the homeowners taste in design and dcor. The obvious purpose for a window sill is to provide support, but its shelf-like quality can make for an interesting resting place for lots of different household items.

However, if you wish to make the best use of the space, you will definitely wish to keep it free from clutter, and then use your imagination and creativity to embellish and enhance your window sills. Let the space reflect your personality, your hobby, what you are enthusiastic about, and let it compliment the style and dcor of your home.

One embellishment that can make your ordinary window sill “pop” with style is to adorn them with candles.

When to Use Candles

If you are thinking about dressing up your windows for a special and festive occasion, you could definitely use candles upon the window sill to accentuate the event. Window sill candles are a simple way to illuminate the joy of a moment, while capturing a sense of warmth and tranquility.

In todays candle market, there are an abundance of different styles and scents used for candles, which make them quite a popular decorative treatment. When thinking about the seasons, you might choose a scented candle that is reminiscent of that season, such as apple cinnamon scents or mulberry in the fall, which will allow you to bring the season inside and store it upon the windowsill.

You can showcase the candles in small votive holders or intricately designed holders. You can even match the candle colors to the color scheme of the room. Add your personal flare and taste when decorating the window sill with candles. Create a special candle dish or plate that uses the candle as a centerpiece, and surround it with earthy items like flowers, leaves and pine cones. Have fun with it, and let your personality show.

Share the Gift

Decorating with candles is very popular and the gift of candles is one that is always pleasing. You can give the gift of candles for holidays, parties and even housewarming gifts for friends and family alike.

The window is a glimpse at the heart and soul of a home, and by giving the gift of candles meant for the windowsill, you are further enhancing the warmth held within the home they embellish.

Do not just give the gift of candles; you can compliment the candles with special decorative dishes, stands and holders. Window sill candles can perk up perk up a window, a room and a home.

Today, window sills are constructed from a variety of different materials, but one of the oldest materials chosen is stone and for obvious reasons. Stone is more durable, long lasting and weathers extremely well compared to other materials that can and are used in the construction of window sills. Natural stone is also appealing from a design aspect because it can add beauty to the structure it is used in and enhance the overall quality of the home or building.

Stone:  The Advantages

Utilizing stone in the construction of window sills comes with advantages. Stone window sills, generally, will not have many joints; in fact, most are cut from one slab. Having few joints to mend will reduces possible pathways for water to penetrate, and therefore lessen problems that could arise from water damage. Also, because of the way stone window sills are installed, sloping away from the building, it will help with water drainage. Another advantage of stone window sills is that they are low maintenance, easy to clean and have a beautiful natural look and feel.

The Standards and Trends

From designers to contractors to homeowners and business owners, the want for a sturdy and long lasting window sill has been a major interest, which is why stone window sills are the choice of many. As with any aspect of building construction, there are required standard guidelines, and window sill construction is no different.

The established standard for using stone window sills is that the sectional lengths are easy to handle and able to withstand the stress they undergo during construction. If and when joints are necessary between long window sills, the joints should be constructed by using soft joints. Also, expansion joints may be needed at the points where the window sill is adjacent or flush with the window jamb.

Common Features and Functions

When using stone window sills, there are sometimes cavities or air pockets that may require the use of flashing, which will help improve the function and durability of the window sills by preventing water and moisture from escaping into the wall or sill.

Stone window sills also incorporate a drip system that will stop water from seeping into the exterior face of the wall, and is done by cutting a v-shape, or rectangular shape or circular shape vent into the bottom face of the stone window sill. There are also small portals or weep slots that will let water escape rather than accumulating and causing deterioration of the stone window sill.

A window is a structure in a home or building that functions to allow natural light inside as well as ventilate the space with air. A window consists of several components like a head, two jambs, the frame, pane of glass and a sill, to name a few.

Windows can be divided horizontally with the use of a transom, or vertically with the use of a mullion. The panes of glass that are used in a window are sometimes referred to as the light. The opening, if it is hinged, is called the casement; if it slides, the opening is called the sash.

Most windows also have a horizontal shelf-like ledge that runs along the bottom of the window frame and this is known as the window sill. Window sills are constructed from a number of different materials such as steel, aluminum, PVC, natural stones and wood.

When discussing rotted window sills, it is generally wooden windowsill that will have this type of damage.

Monitoring for Rotted Window Sills

One of the most common damages seen in window sills, as noted by the American Society of Home Inspectors, is wood deterioration resulting from wet or dry rot.

Wet rot deterioration will occur when the window sill is exposed to an excessive amount of water, which keeps the wood damp and causes it to deteriorate over time. Dry rot will occur when the window sill is exposed to the constant heat and drying from sunlight.

Both types of rot will cause the wood to break down, and become brittle and soft. The damage may be further exasperated when there is the presence of black or yellow fungus or wood thriving insects. When the wooden window sill has been painted, you may notice the signs of rot appear as soft indentations, depressions and cracking under the surface of the paint.

You can easily investigate the extent of the damage by probing the wood with a screwdriver or metal pick, which will allow you to determine how soft or spongy the wood is.

If the window sill appears to be more than 15 percent damaged by rot, it will be necessary to do structural repair or total replacement. The wood used in the replacement should be blue-labeled and not pressure treated because pressure treated wood produces toxic fumes when they are set on fire.

Today, the market has come out with easy to use intervention kits that utilize epoxy patches, which are quicker to use and more economical for the homeowner to invest in. The repair kit will contain what is called a consolidator that will harden the wood. It will also contain a two-part epoxy that will have to be mixed up properly with appropriate filler. This will help make the original wood stronger.

An important aspect of any window is its window sill. This is because the window sill is a feature that helps to channel water in a path away from the home or building. In order for the window sills to be effective, they must be constructed from quality material, which will allow them to function for years to come. Today, window sills are not just limited to wood and can be constructed from a number of different materials such as aluminum, vinyl, PVC and natural stones like slate, marble, granite and limestone.

Important Aspects of  Construction

Since the main function of a window sill is to carry water accumulation away from the home or building structure, it is necessary for the builder to slope the top surface of the window sill downward. For the window sill that is made from brick, there should be an approximate fifteen-degree slope from the horizontal position, and the degree of the slope will, of course, vary depending on the type of material that is used. When installing the window sill, it should be measured and calculated so that an average of at least an inch extends beyond the wall of the structure. The contractors may also wish to consider using brick units that are not cored for the end pieces of the window sill, so that there will be no cores visible to view.

The Evolving Trends

It was once a common practice for brick masonry window sills to be done right on site of the construction. However, even though on site fabrication is still practiced, newer methods such as prefabricated units have emerged, and this is especially so when the sills are combined with a spandrel.

Prefabricated and pre-cast stone window sills are a convenient method today because they are available in pre-cut section lengths that make them more practical to install and more likely to resist stress during installation. That is why today, the contractors responsible of window sill installation are recommended to keep the length of the window sills to a limited length, which makes handling easier; though, they must make sure to soft joint between the longer window sill sections.

The Designer Look in Window Construction

First and foremost, the sill must maintain its functional quality, but that does not mean it has to give up any detail and aesthetic value. This can easily be achieved by combining the structural abilities with the artistic design of the window sill, and a sure way to do this is by choosing quality material to work with. Todays designers are not limited by choice of material and are able to add the artistic element with ease.

The necessity to replace window sill walls is mostly due to when the homes were built. In homes that were constructed prior to the 1960s, the window sill walls were constructed in such a fashion that utilized a window sash, which was not always effective in keeping out weathering elements like moisture. This type of window structure had a sloped sill that was made out of wood on the outside, which carried the main function of draining water from the window. However today, it is known that water and wood do not make for a long lasting structure, free from rot, mold and decay.

Today, when utilizing wood for window sills, you may be inclined to use pressure-treated wood; however, pressure-treated wood is not up to code and standard to use in the structure of a home. This is mainly due to the fact that if there were a fire, this type of wood would burn and give off toxic fumes that are hazardous. So, it is better to utilize the blue-labeled wood, which will end the problem, with chances of recurrence a minimal.

However, if you are looking for a more economical repair, you can opt for an epoxy patch, which is an effective alternative. Epoxy repair kits will contain a consolidator that works to harden the wood as well as a two-part epoxy. When properly mixed with the correct filler, this will make the original wood stronger.

The window sill replacement itself is a simple task to carry out. Basically, you take out the old sill, measure and cut the replacement, and install.

With any window sill wall replacement, you will need to take measurements of the window sill walls width, length and thickness. Once the measurements are taken and noted, you can remove the sash channel trim, the sidepieces of the trim and then access the sill.

Using a pry bar and some scrap wood to protect the wall, you can pry the trim away from wall. Then you will be ready to remove any nails or jambs with pliers.

You can use the old sill as a template and guide, which you can then trace out the size and shape onto the new wood, and then cut with a saber saw. When you have the precise size cut out of the new wood, you can fit it into place, nail down, and nail the trim back into place.

Countersinking the nails can give a more secure fix to the window sill and trim, and then fill nail holes with wood putty.

After you have finished replacing the window sill wall, you may wish to paint or stain the new wood to help it blend with the rest of the window sills in your home.

The window sill is the bottom horizontal ledge of the window frame with a width that protrudes from the interior and exterior wall of a room. Sometimes called a window stool, a window sill’s width varies in size and it is made from a variety of different materials.

Older sills were made commonly from wood, while today, window sills are constructed from PVC, natural stone like limestone, marble, slate and granite, and they are still made from wood.

They can bring an element of design and beauty to the structure they are in. You can even use window sills to showcase floral arrangements, potted plants and other decorative pieces.

Maintaining Window Sill Panels

Window sills come into contact with the harsh elements of weather and because of this, it may be necessary to do to maintenance and monitoring of your window sills. Wooden window sills must be checked periodically for peeling, cracks, chipped paint, decay and mold; and if found, you should do repairs, maintenance and replacement.

Depending on what the window sills are made from, replacing them may be the only option for damage, and this can be an easy task if you are handy. When planning to replace your old wooden window sills to PVC or a natural stone choice, it is important to look at the style and color scheme in your home, and then make an appropriate match.

The Actual Replacement

Since wooden sills are prone to weathering, rotting and decaying, you may have to replace the window sill at one time or another.

This task can be accomplished by first removing the exterior trim of the window sill. To do this, take a utility knife and score the caulking that is around the outside of the window frame.

Next, use a pry bar to gently pry the panel, removing the window frame and checking how extensive the damage is. Now you are ready to measure and fit your new cedar wood window sill.

Once you have measured and cut the correct size, fit the new window sill into place and nail it to the surface. When you have it in place properly, replace the window frame and paint or stain the new window sill.

If you are planning to replace all the old wooden window sills with one of the other varieties of materials used, you may wish to call in a professional who can better assist you with the change.

One of the oldest materials used to make window sills is marble. Marble window sills give the impression of elegance and luxury, which is why they are found in castles and mansions. Marble window sills are extremely durable, yet beautiful, which make them a favorite with designers.

Features of Marble Window Sills

If you are going for a look of luxury and grandeur, marble window sills will do that and more. Marble window sills enhance the exterior and interior of the structure they are used in, giving it a rich and elegant look.

Marble window sills are very easy to maintain and clean, and will last a long time; so, they become a worthwhile investment. Another benefit to having marble window sills is that they can withstand weather, rain, heat, cold and still look new after years. Marble window sills are even the choice of the rich and famous when it comes to home renovations.

Different Types of Marble Window Sills

Marble window sills generally can be ordered in three standard widths, 4″, 5″ and 6″. When the chosen size is ordered, it will be cut from a 3/4″ slab of marble. For that real exotic feel, you can import your marble from Italy, where it is common to use marble for window sills. Marble comes in earthy tones, so it will compliment any style of dcor nicely, making it a subtle yet elegant accent to ones home. Marble window sills are finished with polish that add luster and shine to them.

Uses for Marble Window Sills

The use of marble window sills in homes and office spaces have become a popular choice for those who are striving for a look and feel of elegance. Its smooth high gloss look is an accent in itself, but can also make a nice space to showcase a floral arrangement, potted plant or an antique — basically anything that will not overshadow the beauty of the marble window sill. You definitely want to keep the marble window sills clear from clutter, which will take away from the beauty, and hanging nice curtains will bring out the beauty even more.

Marble Window Sills: The Advantages

The most obvious advantage is that marble window sills are sturdy and durable, and more to the point, they are water resistant and clean up easily with a damp sponge and mild cleaner. Because of the sturdiness, you will not have to worry about marble window sills chipping and peeling as you do with other types of windowsills. Also, marble window sills do not fall prey to the hazards of weathering; so, you do not have to worry about marble rotting, molding and decaying.

It is a beautiful morning, the suns rays are shining brightly through the window, the birds can vaguely be heard chirping in the distance, and it is time for you to greet the day. So, you get out of bed and drag yourself to the window. You leaning upon the ledge, which is the interior window sill, as you open up the window to let the fresh air of morning fill your lungs.

The interior window sill is not really something we stop and take the time to think about, yet everyday we come into contact with it. The interior window sill is the bottom portion of the window, which protrudes out from the interior wall, forming a ledge. The interior window sill runs horizontally and can be found next to the window sash, but only if the window is closed. Sometimes, you may even hear the interior window sill referred to as the window stool. Interior window sills are made from a variety of different material like wood, PVC and natural stones such as slate, granite, marble or limestone.

Uses for the Interior Window Sill

The interior window sill can be a decorative accent for the window that sits above it or it can be utilized as a shelf to display items. Depending on the width of the interior window sill, you can use it to showcase a floral arrangement in a vase, a potted plant, an artifact and even dolls in a childrens room.

Adorning the window with beautifully colored curtains will often enhance the decorative quality of the window sill. A more practical use for the interior window sill could be a sturdy ledge to mount your air-conditioner on in the heated months of summer.

Different Types of Interior Window Sills

As already stated, interior window sills are constructed of a variety of different materials. Some interior window sills are made of natural stones like slate, limestone, granite and marble, while others are made out of wood.

In modern structures, the interior window sill might be constructed from synthetic material such as PVC. If you are looking to replace old wooden windowsills, you can easily replace it with PVC windowsills, which you can choose in either rounded or straight angles. You can even go the extra mile and dress up the new PVC interior window sill with decorative end caps.

Features of Synthetic PVC Interior Window Sills

PVC interior window sills combine safety with a decorative flare. They are water resistant and fire resistant, which is an important feature. The PVC interior window sills are low maintenance, easy to clean and there is no peeling of chipping as there can be with interior window sills that are made from wood. PVC interior window sills are also very light in weight, which is a plus for installation.

Caring for Interior Window Sills

As with any shelf in your home, the interior window sill will collect dust and dirt, and it will be necessary to clean and maintain the interior window sill. You should keep your interior window sills free from clutter. And if you are going to dress up your interior window sills, you should do it neatly and not go overboard.

Whether flush with the wall or protruding from the wall, one of the aspects of any window frame is the lower horizontal portion known as the window sill. As long as structures have had windows, they have also had window sills.

Today, window sills are also considered decorative embellishments for the window because they can be intricately designed or made from material that makes them a featured accent of the window, room and structure. In other words, todays window sills serve a purpose. They are decorative accents that are shelf-like in construction and this makes them perfect for potted plants, floral arrangements and other decorative pieces that may need to be showcased.

Window sills were once only constructed from wood, stone or concrete, but now there are a variety of other materials that windowsills are made from like PVC, and natural stones such as slate, granite, marble or limestone.

The Uses for New Window Sills

Whether you choose to utilize the inner or outer ledge of a window sill, there are definitely many uses for them.

* If you love to cook, you can use the interior and exterior window sill in the kitchen to start a small herb garden. Window sills make great places to put potted plants and floral arrangements. You can even use window sills to shelf a beautiful antique piece.

* If you are fortunate enough to have window sills that are low in height, you can use them as a place to write or paint, and take advantage of the natural sunlight that flourishes through the window.

* Depending on how decorative your window sills are, they themselves can be used as a room accent, and you can set them off by hanging beautiful curtains to bring attention to the detail of the window sills, which will enhance the room.

Different Types of New Window Sills

Traditionally, windowsills were pretty much only made from wood, but today there are a variety of materials used from which to construct new window sills. Besides the more traditional wooden window sill, window sills are made from PVC, and natural stones like marble, granite, slate and limestone. So, if you are looking to remodel your window sills, you can go with something new, something different. PVC window sills give an edgy and designer look to the window because they can be either rounded or straight angles and then you can add a designer touch with decorative end caps.

Different Styles for New Window Sills

Today’s window sills incorporate elements of safety and aesthetics, which now make them an important feature in the design of a home or building structure. For instance, the PVC window sill has a designer look due to the shape and curves in which they are available, and can give an artistic look and feel to a room. Choosing from different colors of window sills, you can really create a stylish environment.

Whatever room you’re in at the moment, take note of how the window and window sill add beauty to the room. Windows and window sills come in a variety of materials such as concrete, wood and vinyl. The concrete window sill, while only concrete in name, typically is a composite because it is combined with a mix of special fibers. These fibers help keep the concrete from cracking by giving it some flexibility.

Cast stone is currently very popular in the masonry field. Cast stone is thought to be stronger than most of the natural stone used in buildings. Many are choosing window sills made of reinforced cast stone because they provide the beauty of natural stone with a much sturdier construction.

It is important that the design of a building’s facade prevents heavy water flow or concentrations on the walls. Otherwise the building’s walls will quickly lose their beauty. The most important of these facades are the projections and drips such as the copings, roof overhangs and window sills.

A fixed sash window assembly’s frame holds the panel of glass over an opening in an enclosing wall of the building. The sill on this frame is generally metal or plastic comprising a horizontal frame. This sill should be mounted at the window base on the building’s foundation. An exterior sealing strip holds the top portion of the exterior flange. Any water that may get through the exterior seal strip drains out of holes formed in the web. The depending frame most exteriorly disposed has a horizontal ledge that extends out beyond the window base into the drain holes of the web. A wet sealing compound should then be filled in the space between the ledge, the leg and the foundation of the building. A drain shield on the outside edge of the web is used to protect the drain holes against backflow. Thus, the water is unable to enter the room through the window sill.