How To Tell If You're At The Right Level To Go After Window Sash Repairs Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy 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. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

After window repair is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This can be due to many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner 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 the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

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

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out 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, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.


It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.