10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong Concerning Window Sash Repairs Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become too much.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the 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 the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed 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).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove 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 a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. 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 damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail window repairs near me to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.


Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.