Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons Learned From Professionals Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, window repairs is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.


It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it 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 chain or cord and secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.