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

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin 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). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table 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 inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These 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. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and 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. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address 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, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get 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 cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs 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 consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

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 properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer 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 diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning 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 pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. window repair should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.