8 Tips To Improve Your Window Sash Repairs Game Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window 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, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.

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

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 then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.


Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. After window repair near me is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.