Learn The Window Sash Repairs Tricks The Celebs Are Using Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they become too much.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. window repair may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. 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 width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware


The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of 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 sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off 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 old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less 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 on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.