What Is Window Sash Repairs And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It? Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If window repairs is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.


If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying 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 cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards 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. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.