Window Sill Detail

Window Sill Detail

Window Sill Replacement - How to Select a More Durable Material
By Jim Schwarznoff - Ezinearticles

Window sills have both a functional and a cosmetic use on the exterior of your home. Functionally, sills should angle away from a window, encouraging precipitation - rain, sleet, snow - to drain down and away from the building. This prevents water pooling and the associated damp, mould-ideal-conditions around the window that can not only be unsightly but also cause structural problems if not treated. Over the long haul, repairing these kinds of problems can cost thousands of dollars.

Cosmetically, a window sill will enhance the look - and indeed the value - of your property. As they are prominent features, and by their very function - stick out from the building, the eye is drawn to them. Protruding from the wall, they often cast a shadow, making them even more prominent. Even though their primary function - filtering water away from the building - is being still met, a window sill can be ordered and easily fitted to compliment the look and design of any property. Therefore, choosing which sill to to use is as much about its function as it's aesthetic suitability with the rest of your building.

Window sills compose of inorganic Styrofoam, fiberglass mesh and modified cement are an ideal combination of components that are not susceptible to mould growth due to damp conditions. This makes them surprisingly lightweight despite the authentic and beautiful cast stone look. It also makes maneuvering them into position and installation considerably easier than you would find with a heavier, less forgiving product.

Styrofoam sills are mould, warp, rot, termite and impact resistant - giving you peace of mind during installation that you will not have any ongoing maintenance costs or need to replace them with an alarming frequency. More often than not, the first time they are coated will leave a seal that will last for over 20 years, assuming the quality of the window sills purchased were high enough quality. Subsequent updates simply require a quick scrape to remove any loose materials and re-coating using regular paint tools.

Replacing a window sill can be an easy D-I-Y project for those with a working knowledge of home improvement techniques. With easy-fitting window sill replacements you can change the look and style of your home quickly and easily while saving money.

When replacing a window sill product you will not need to hire a local contractor to do the work. Installation of a sill with pre-mitered ends simply requires the adhesive, nails temporarily, and caulking for the sides and top of the sill. Additionally, if done as a do it yourself renovation, not only will you have the feeling of a job well done every time you pull in to your home, and you will also have saved a good deal of money. All you need to do is order the sills (which can be ordered with pre-finished mitered ends) and install them when they arrive.

Any cement coated, Styrofoam-based sills should comply with EIFS council recommendations for exterior trim products. As well as providing long lasting protection against the elements, you can rest assured that coated Styrofoam window sills are backed by a long lasting warranty.

Window Sill Detail