Ten Ways To Build Your Window Sash Repairs Empire Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. After it has fully 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 holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If window repairs near me are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. 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.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.


When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

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 in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.