A The Complete Guide To Window Sash Repairs From Start To Finish

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide window repairs near me to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.


If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.

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Pub: 05 Feb 2024 22:29 UTC
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