Learn What Window Sash Repairs Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.


Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the previous step. window repairs can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.

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Pub: 04 Feb 2024 15:44 UTC
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